Injection Drug Addiction Dangers

It’s no surprise that injection drug users (IDUs) are at greater risk of death than the general population. Substance abuse and drug addiction are major underlying causes of preventable morbidity and mortality in the U.S., but intravenous drug users have an increased risk. Needle sharing, using unsterile injection equipment and practicing unsafe sex opens this group up to the transmission of blood-borne infections including HIV and hepatitis B and C.

While it’s almost impossible to get an accurate number of injection drug users, experts estimate that there are approximately 1 million in the U.S. alone. Studies also show that approximately one third of AIDS cases and half of all new hepatitis C cases in the U.S. stem from injection drug use. Fatal drug overdoses also contribute to the total number of deaths among IDUs. Because the injection method delivers the illicit drug directly into the user’s bloodstream, overdose is more likely than with other methods of ingestion.

Drug Addiction Rehab

If you or a family member is struggling with an addiction to IV drugs, you can get help by calling The Canyon at our toll-free number, 877.714.1319. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.