Underreporting in HIV-related high-risk behaviors: comparing the results of multiple data collection methods in a behavioral survey of prisoners in Iran.

We explored the potentials of using three indirect methods including crosswise, proxy respondent method, and network scale-up (NSU) in comparison to direct questioning in collecting sensitive and socially stigmatized HIV-related risk behaviors information from prisoners (N=265). Participants reported more sexual contact in prison for their friends than they did for themselves (10.6% vs.

The Effectiveness of Harm Reduction Programs in Seven Prisons of Iran.

Background: Starting in 1990 many programs were initiated to prevent and control the spread of HIV/AIDS in prisons in accordance with the policies of the Ministry of Health. This study attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of harm reduction programs vis-à-vis drug abuse and dependency in 7 prisons in Iran.

Methods: The methodology used is Before-After testing and the sample population is incarcerated prisoners in 7 large prisons in 7 provinces with diverse geographical, criminal, and numerical factors and the population sample is estimated at 2,200 inmates.

HIV prevalence and related risk behaviours among prisoners in Iran: results of the national biobehavioural survey, 2009.

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of HIV and related risk behaviours among prisoners in Iran in 2009.

Methods: Using multistage random sampling, we recruited 5,530 prisoners from 27 prisons in Iran. Behavioural data were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire-based interview, and HIV status was determined by ELISA of dried blood spots.

Scaling up methadone maintenance treatment for opioid-dependent prisoners in Iran.

Background: Research evidence indicates that prisoners in Iran are at risk of drug-related harm, including acquisition of blood-borne infections. In response, several prevention interventions including methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) have been introduced into prisons in Iran.

Methods: This report reviews and presents some important information extracted from published articles, and available documents on HIV sentinel surveillance and provision of MMT inside correctional settings in Iran.

Patterns of drug use and HIV-related risk behaviors among incarcerated people in a prison in Iran.

Previous research indicates that prisoners in Iran are at risk of drug-related harm, including acquisition of blood-borne infections. In response, several prevention interventions have been introduced into prisons in Iran, such as methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). MMT is now provided to opioid-dependent prisoners in 142 of the 230 prisons and correctional settings in Iran.