Harris-Offutt R; HIV Infection in Women Conference.
Program Abstr HIV Infect Women Conf HIV Infect Women Conf 1995 Wash DC. 1995 Feb 22-24; S17.
Substance abuse is particularly important as a mode of HIV transmission in women. Of all AIDS cases among adult and adolescent women reported through June 1993, more than two- thirds were directly or indirectly associated with injecting drug use. Non-injectable drugs, such as alcohol and crack cocaine, also place women at increased risk for HIV infection. These drugs impair sexual decision-making, which may result in risky sexual activity, including trading sex for drugs, housing or other material goods. This presentation will include a discussion of acupuncture and other non-Western therapies that have been found to be effective as a foundation for long-term psychosocial rehabilitation in treating female substance abusers. It will also address Native American cultural views on traditional healing techniques, including the use of herbs, "sweat lodges" and other ritual healing methods that emphasize spirituality and oneness with the universe. The high rates of long-term efficacy of non-Western therapies among female substance abusers represent important opportunities to reduce HIV risk, and as part of a continuum of medical and social services, these therapies may improve the quality of life for women who are infected with HIV.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Crack Cocaine
- Female
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Humans
- Sexual Behavior
- Substance-Related Disorders
- methods
Other ID:
UI: 102214760
From Meeting Abstracts