Substance use, particularly injection drug use, significantly increases communicable disease risk. Sharing needles, syringes, and other paraphernalia transmits bloodborne infections including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Substance use also impairs judgment, increasing exposure to sexually transmitted infections.
Hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne infection in the United States, with injection drug use as the primary transmission mode. HIV also spreads through shared injection equipment. Both conditions are manageable with modern medical treatment, and hepatitis C is now curable in most cases. Early detection through screening is essential.
Prevention includes substance abuse treatment, clean needle access through syringe exchanges, hepatitis B vaccination, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV, and education about safer practices. While abstinence eliminates risk entirely, harm reduction approaches save lives for those not yet ready for treatment.
ORTC incorporates communicable disease screening into our intake process. Our medical team provides testing for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other infections, and connects clients with appropriate treatment resources. There is no judgment — only care and support for your overall health and recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling, ORTC offers confidential, compassionate treatment. Call us today.