National Day Of Action On Syringe Exchange 2023: Date, History, Facts

Every year on March 21, the National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange is observed to raise awareness and educate the public about the significance of sterile syringes and syringe exchange services. These are also referred to as syringe service programs (SSPs), which are an essential component of harm reduction and a crucial weapon in the fight against the drug overdose epidemic. What are the specific goals of the National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange, and what can we do to support them? Continue reading.

The background of National Day Of Action On Syringe Exchange

Community-based syringe exchange programs are clinics where individuals can bring used needles for secure disposal and receive clean needles. Thus, the emphasis here is on damage reduction. These programs may offer a variety of services, such as injection apparatus access, vaccination testing, and referrals to infectious disease care and substance abuse treatment. It protects communities by preventing infectious disease outbreaks and facilitating the secure disposal of used syringes, thereby reducing drug abuse, crime, and syringe litter.

It is important to observe that clean needles do not necessarily promote drug use. They provide an alternative to reusing equipment that can cause disease and decomposition. Moreover, needle exchanges not only provide a solution to the U.S. drug epidemic, but also serve as a first step in identifying a substance user and endeavoring to find solutions to their most pressing problems. The National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange was established in 2012 in response to the federal congressional prohibition and in an effort to destigmatize the need for assistance among drug users, treat them with respect and dignity, and promote safer injecting practices.

Let’s encourage others to disseminate positive and accurate information about syringe exchange on this National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange. If you, your peers, or a member of your family needs to exchange syringes, feel free to seek guidance at any syringe exchange center.

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5 IMPORTANT FACTS REGARDING SYRINGE EXCHANGE

In the United States, there are approximately 2.4 billion injection drug consumers.

About 1,000 times a year, injection drug users administer themselves or are themselves injected.

In the United States, needle exchanges have reduced hazardous behavior by as much as 80 percent.

Nearly 30% fewer HIV/Aids cases have been reported since the introduction of syringe exchanges.

Up to 42 days, the virus can persist in needles placed under the skin.

NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION ON SYRINGE EXCHANGE DATES