PubMed · 14660753
The source did not provide an abstract. Follow the original record for more information.
Explore connections, maps & timelines
S Chapman. 2003. Harm reduction.. https://doi.org/10.1136/tc.12.4.341
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.
KEEP EXPLORING
This article provides information on harm reduction, a recent development in substance abuse services in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The author outlines abstinence and harm reduction perspectives and the stages of change model and discusses how these perspectives can be integrated in social work practice. He proposes using harm reduction strategies for individuals for whom the abstinence perspective may not be appropriate. Together, the traditional abstinence and harm reduction perspectives provide a basis for a more comprehensive continuum of care for individuals experiencing problems related to their substance use.
Tobacco harm reduction approaches are gaining increased attention. Much of this attention is due to a growing concern that significant populations of smokers either do not want to quit or believe they are unable to quit smoking, and to a concern over tobacco-industry attempts to produce tobacco products that claim to result in less toxin exposure. Decreasing tobacco toxin exposure as a method for reducing mortality and morbidity may be a reasonable tobacco control strategy. However, the impact of this strategy must be explored both on individual and population levels. A significant amount of independent research is needed to inform policy decisions. Regulatory authority over potential reduced exposure products is also essential.
Harm reduction and abstinence-based substance abuse treatment can not only be integrated, but their integration is more powerful than either separately. This integration has more positive effects than either model separately on the large problem of patient retention in substance abuse treatment. This integration is particularly relevant for its utility and acceptance in the public sector. Examples from a clinic currently utilizing this model in a public hospital are presented.