Mapping of drug users in the centre of Athens

In September 2018, a study was conducted with a sample of 200 participants, aiming for a comprehensive recording of:

• Information regarding the locations where drug users congregate.
• Demographic data and the living conditions of the users.
• The type of psychoactive substance used.
• Whether or not users were enrolled in rehabilitation or substitution programs.

Findings:

The results of the study highlighted several aspects of the phenomenon, showing that the problems associated with drug use in the center of Athens are persistent, increasing, and diversifying at a rate that calls for immediate and effective interventions.

Key findings included:

• The user population of psychoactive substances in the center of Athens is aging.
• The link between this population and early mortality is beginning to be questioned.
• The high duration of stay of drug users in the center of Athens, combined with the increased rate of homelessness, raises serious concerns about individual and public health, as well as user safety.

These findings complement the results of the study conducted in the “ARISTOTLE HCV/HIV” program, reinforcing the necessity for the implementation of harm reduction policies.

Collaboration:

The study was carried out in collaboration with a project team that included:

• The HIV Positive Association of Greece “Positive Voice”,
• The Hepatitis Patients Association of Greece “Prometheus”,
• Minerva Melpomeni Malliori, Professor of Psychiatry at the A’ Psychiatric Clinic of the University of Athens at the Aiginition Hospital, and
• Vana Sypsa, Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at the Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics at the University of Athens Medical School.