Theme: Social Science & Policy Research Year: 2025
| Background: Since 2012, the WHO has recommended low dead space syringes and needles (LDSS/N) in needle and syringe programs (NSPs) to reduce HIV and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID). However, high dead space syringes and needles are still predominantly distributed in Ukraine. Limited research exists on the values and preferences (V&Ps) of PWID in Ukraine regarding LDSS/N.
Methods: In this Unitaid-funded, PATH-led study, six focus group discussions (FGDs), co-led by the PWID community, were conducted in Sumy and Lviv, Ukraine in January 2025 to determine V&Ps regarding injecting equipment (particularly LDSS/N), service delivery, and enablers/barriers. PWID who attended NSP services and reported recent and regular injecting drug use were recruited through community-led processes, and the PWID community contributed to data coding and analysis. Results: Forty-seven participants took part (Sumy: 23, Lviv: 24). Participants were 80.9% men, reflecting general gender distribution among PWID. Injection equipment access differed between cities: in Sumy, most participants receive syringes through harm reduction programs, while in Lviv, many buy equipment due to insufficient distribution points, limited mobile clinic schedules, and pharmacies’ refusal to sell syringes individually. Pharmacist stigma and police control near distribution points were more frequently mentioned in Lviv. Syringe reuse is common due to insufficient program supplies, financial difficulties, and fear of police. One-third of participants in both cities had not heard of LDSS/N. Attitudes toward LDSS/N are mixed; pros included the potential to lower HCV transmission, convenience, and ease of use; arguments against included distrust and difficulty of cleaning syringes. However, most respondents are willing to try LDSS/N if available at distribution points. Conclusion: FGD results will inform the next study stage, a trial phase, during which participants will have stable access to LDSS/N and additional data collected on participants, uptake, and acceptability of LDSS/N in alignment with community V&Ps. |