Robert E. Stein

One of the ways AIDS is spread is through the sharing of syringes by intravenous drug users. In the following viewpoint, Robert E. Stein argues that needle exchange programs—in which sterile syringes are distributed to drug users—are a highly effective means of preventing the transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Moreover, they contend, studies have shown that needle exchange programs do not increase the number of new drug users or the frequency of use by existing users. Stein is vice chair of the ABA AIDS Coordinating Committee, which was established in 1987 to investigate and make recommendations on AIDS-related legal issues to the American Bar Association, a national association for lawyers.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What positive effects of needle exchange programs does...