A qualitative assessment of stakeholder perceptions and socio-cultural influences on the acceptability of harm reduction programs in Tijuana, Mexico
2008

Understanding Stakeholder Views on Harm Reduction in Tijuana, Mexico

Sample size: 40 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Philbin Morgan M, Lozada Remedios, Zúñiga María Luisa, Mantsios Andrea, Case Patricia, Magis-Rodriguez Carlos, Latkin Carl A, Strathdee Steffanie A

Primary Institution: University of California San Diego

Hypothesis

What are the socio-cultural influences on the acceptability of harm reduction programs in Tijuana, Mexico?

Conclusion

Cultural and religious factors significantly impact the acceptance and implementation of harm reduction programs in Tijuana.

Supporting Evidence

  • 75% of stakeholders supported needle exchange programs, the highest among the interventions discussed.
  • Religious culture was identified as a significant barrier to the acceptance of harm reduction.
  • Many stakeholders felt that the socio-political context in Mexico was not ready for harm reduction interventions.
  • Participants expressed a need for increased awareness and understanding of harm reduction among the community.

Takeaway

This study talks to people in Tijuana about how culture and religion affect their thoughts on programs that help drug users stay safe.

Methodology

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 community stakeholders to explore cultural and societal-related themes.

Potential Biases

Potential bias from stakeholders who may not have been fully informed about harm reduction interventions.

Limitations

The study's results may not be generalizable to other cities in Mexico, and some stakeholders were not interviewed due to refusal.

Participant Demographics

67% male, median age of 42 years, diverse representation from health, rehabilitation, legal, pharmacy, and religious sectors.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7517-5-36

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