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Objective:

To measure HIV prevalence and characterize associated risk behaviors among injection drug users (IDU) upon detention in Tehran, Iran.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey included 459 male IDU arrested by police during a police sweep in Tehran in 2006. A questionnaire was completed, and blood was collected for HIV testing.

Results:

Overall HIV prevalence was 24.4%(95% confidence interval 20.5-28.6). Factors independently associated with HIV infection included history of using an opioid in jail (adjusted odds ratio 2.11, 95% confidence interval 1.26-3.53) and older age (adjusted odds ratio 2.79 for 25-34, 3.01 for 35-44, 4.62 for≥ 45 yr).

Conclusions:

This study supports that incarceration is contributing to the increased spread of HIV. Harm reduction programs should be urgently expanded, particularly among incarcerated IDU.