A benefit-cost analysis of syringe exchange programs

To date, a paucity of systematic economic evaluations have been applied to syringe exchange programs. In today's cost-conscious environment, with public health officials contending with restricted HIV prevention budgets, what amount of scarce resources should be allocated toward the operation of SEPs? To address this question, benefit-cost analyses emerge as useful strategies to inform decision-makers about which programs hold the most promise for preventing HIV infection among intravenous drug users. This review article balances the benefits of HIV prevention via syringe exchange against the costs of operating such programs.