Afghanistan - International - Médecins du Monde

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Afghanistan

Harm reduction programme for drug users


The health and security situation in the country worsened considerably in 2008, with the intensification of fighting between insurgents and Afghan and international forces. In this situation, access to healthcare for the most vulnerable groups remains very difficult. This is particularly the case for drug users, of whom there are an estimated 1 million, and amongst whom MdM is running a harm reduction programme.


INFANT MORTALITY 257‰
LIFE EXPECTANCY 42.9
HDI NC
GDP/CAPITA ($) NC




More than 90% of the opium sold in the world is produced in Afghanistan,where domestic consumption is growing. In 2009, there were an estimated 1.5 million drug users. The number of heroin injectors is thought to be growing fast, and this group represents the major risk factor in the transmission of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. Faced with a repressive culture and a discriminatory healthcare system, MdM is supporting a harm reduction programme.


Harm reduction programme for drug users.

Kabul - Long term


ACTIVITIES

Since 2006, MdM has been developing an ambitious strategy of harm reduction amongst Afghan drug users. There are two parts to this work: the setting up of a prevention project and access to primary healthcare and to treatment, as well as the creation of a resource and training centre for local actors involved in the struggle against HIV/AIDS. This health centre and refuge, that monitors the health of 230 drug users on a weekly basis, has been recognised as a model programme for the Middle East-North African region. In May 2009, MdM prescribed the first antiretrovirals in the country and set up the first self-help groups for people living with HIV/AIDS.


RESULTS

Some 118,733 syringes and 34,295 condoms were distributed. 750 drug users are monitored within the scope of the programme.


OUTLOOK

From February 2010 MdM will introduce methadone as a substitution treatment. The programme should extend to 120 patients by the end of the year. MdM plans to train local actors in harm reduction and HIV/AIDS. Finally, the programme will support the creation of an independent Afghan association involved in harm reduction.

  Life expectancy : 43,6 yrs
IDH : 0.352 ; rang : 181/182 *

Population
Beneficiaries : 750

Target : 150 000

Personnel

Local : 34

Expatriate : 1

Co-ordinators :
Programme : Guy Caussé, Olivier Maguet
Field : Olivier Vandecasteele
HQ : Valérie Brunel

Budget 2009 : 433 278 €

Funding : World Bank, WHO, Global Fund, other UN funds, French private funds, MdM


August 2010


* Source : unpd 2007