ResearchProjects

There is limited understanding of sexually transmitted infection (STI) and sexual health among people who use illicit opioids (PWUIO), with the majority of research to date focused more narrowly on HIV and HCV among those who inject drugs. Also lacking is knowledge of whether medications to treat opioid use disorder (MOUD) and engagement in harm reduction such as opioid education and naloxone distribution may affect STI and sexual health among PWUIO through their impacts on substance use, sexual risk, and engagement in care, and if these effects differ among vulnerable subgroups. This pilot research study examined the effects of MOUD and harm reduction on STI and sexual health in a cohort study of PWUIO in New York City.