GPC Key Population CoP Webinar| Effective evidence-based HIV, STI and HCV interventions for people who use stimulant drugs

Background

Stimulant drugs, particularly cocaine and amphetamines like methamphetamine, have become a significant public health concern worldwide. These substances are widely misused due to their potential to enhance mood, energy, and focus. However, their abuse can lead to severe consequences, including increased risks of mortality, suicide, psychosis, depression, and violence.

To mitigate these harms, evidence-based harm reduction strategies are essential. Additionally, substantial investment in research is needed to develop effective prevention and treatment programs.

To address these issues, the eleventh meeting of the key population community of practice held on November 28th, 2024 focused on "Addressing stimulant drug use in the context of HIV prevention among people who inject drugs."

Objectives

To increase global awareness of the extent and risks of stimulant drug use, particularly its impact on HIV and other health outcomes.
To disseminate evidence-based guidance and best practices for addressing stimulant drug use, both globally and regionally
To explore and discuss practical, evidence-based harm reduction strategies tailored to people who inject drugs.
To identify and prioritize global and regional actions needed to strengthen the response to stimulant drug use

Proceedings

Session 1:

The meeting commenced with a welcome address by Fariba Soltani from UNODC, who highlighted the critical importance of addressing stimulant drug use, especially among people who inject drugs. She outlined the meeting's objectives and set the stage for the discussions.

A panel of experts, including Monica Ciupagea from UNODC and Antons Mozalevskis and Dzimtry Krupchanka from WHO, presented a comprehensive global overview of stimulant drug use.
They discussed the increasing prevalence of stimulant drug use worldwide, particularly among key populations, and the significant health and social harms associated with it, such as overdose, HIV/AIDS, and mental health issues.
The panel emphasised the need for evidence-based interventions, including harm reduction services, treatment, and prevention programs, to address these challenges. They also highlighted the urgent need for further research and investment to develop and scale up effective interventions.
People with lived experience of drug use, such as Shaun Shelly from SANPUD and Bikas Gurung from NAPUD, shared their insights and recommendations for designing and implementing holistic harm reduction interventions. They emphasized the importance of involving and collaborating with the drug-using community in shaping these strategies.
‍Thomas Brigden from EJAF and Susie McLean from Global Fund discussed their commitment to funding interventions addressing the risks of stimulant drug use. They emphasized the importance of evidence-based approaches and sustainable program.

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Session 2:

The meeting commenced with a warm welcome from Judy Chang of INPUD. She outlined the meeting’s objectives and emphasiSed the critical importance of addressing the growing issue of stimulant drug use, particularly among people who inject drugs.

A panel of experts, including Monica Ciupagea from UNODC and Annette Verster and Dzmitry Krupchanka from WHO, presented a comprehensive global overview of stimulant drug use. They discussed the increasing prevalence of stimulant drug use worldwide, particularly among key populations, and the significant health and social harms associated with it, such as overdose, HIV/AIDS, and mental health issues.

The panel emphasized the need for evidence-based interventions, including harm reduction services, treatment, and prevention programs, to address these challenges. They also highlighted the urgent need for further research and investment to develop and scale up effective interventions.

‍Ancella Voets from Mainline and Yolaan Andrews from NACOSA shared practical experiences and lessons learned from countries that have implemented strategies and interventions to address stimulant drug use. They discussed successful approaches, challenges faced, and innovative solutions, particularly in the context of people who inject drugs.‍
Mat Southwell from Coact and Nang Pann Ei Kham from DPAG, drawing on their lived experiences, shared insights and recommendations for designing and implementing holistic harm reduction interventions. They emphasized the importance of involving and collaborating with the drug-using community in shaping these strategies.
‍Thomas Brigden from EJAF and William Miller from PEPFAR discussed their commitment to funding interventions addressing the risks of stimulant drug use. They emphasized the importance of evidence-based approaches and sustainable programs.
‍Fariba Soltani concluded the meeting by summarizing key points, consensus actions, and next steps. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, knowledge sharing, and advocacy to address the challenges of stimulant drug use.