GMHC Calls on Congress to Act Responsibly in Addressing HIV

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Krishna Stone | 212.367.1016

New York,NY — Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) decries the re-imposition of the ban on federal funding for syringe exchange programs.  This decision contradicts sound science and common sense.  The reinstated ban dangerously removes an evidence-based tool that has been proven effective at reducing transmission of HIV.  Most concerning is that this step was taken despite assurances and clearly stated goals in the National HIV/AIDS strategy.

Syringe exchange programs (SEPs) have been recognized by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to produce substantial health benefits by reducing the spread of HIV and other blood-borne pathogens, including hepatitis B and C.  Research has shown that syringe exchange programs are associated with a dramatic decline in the rate of HIV transmission among intravenous drug users, as well as a greater likelihood of HIV testing and counseling.  For example, New York City experienced a 78% decline in reported HIV infections among intravenous drug users since syringe exchange became available (from 1990 to 2002) - supported by state and local funds. 

Furthermore, studies have shown that SEPs do not increase drug use and often help drug users get into treatment for substance abuse.  The ban on federal funding for SEPs dates back to 1988, a tragic time in the history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.  It wasn't until 2009 that Congress finally followed the science and removed the ban.
"How do you get to zero new infections when you let ideology stand in the way of using existing proven tools to reduce the rate of HIV infection," said Marjorie J. Hill PhD, Chief Executive Officer at GMHC.  "It is hypocritical that Congress would allow this retrograde policy to be put back into place.  It is especially reprehensible that this step was taken during the 30th year of the epidemic when, as stated by the federal government, the tools exist to end the spread of HIV.  This action, along with the decision to wastefully spend taxpayer dollars on disproven abstinence-only education demonstrates a clear lack of commitment by Congress to seriously confront HIV." 

For more information about syringe exchange programs in the United States and globally, please download GMHC's two reports:

Syringe exchange programs around the world: The global context (PDF)

Syringe Exchange: An effective tool in the fight against HIV and drug abuse (PDF)

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About GMHC:  GMHC is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported, and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS. We provide prevention and care services to men, women, and families that are living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS in New York City. We advocate for scientific, evidence-based public health solutions for hundreds of thousands worldwide.  Our mission:  GMHC fights to end the AIDS epidemic and uplift the lives of all affected.