Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users

A newsletter produced by the B.C. Anti-Prohibition League providing information about issues, developments, and studies related to the prohibition of controlled drugs and substances in the context of British Columbia.

The document is a summary of the proceedings of the national conference, Epidemics in our Communities, held in Regina, Saskatchewan in 2003. The conference was organized by AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan and All Nations Hope AIDS Network to address health and social issues affecting communities including addictions, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, and youth at risk. The document includes a summary and background to the conference; an overview of the organizations facilitating the conference; a schedule and description of presentations; and a list and contact information for participants.

The document provides information about the Downtown Eastside Youth Activities Society (DEYAS) needle exchange program. The authors include information about the hours, location, and the procedures for operating the needle exchange program which includes a detailed schedule for the East Van, West Van, and overnight Vancouver hours and locations. The authors also provide statistics about the efficacy of the program in preventing HIV transmission, the syringe volume per year from 1989 through 1994, and reference to international studies citing the success of the Vancouver program.

Newsletter providing information on the latest research with regard to transmission and treatment of Hepatitis C. It describes new medicines, vitamins and herbal therapies being used and/or undergoing research. It includes letters to the editor, and announcements about upcoming conferences, meetings, and events occurring in BC and Yukon and in other provinces.