REACHING DRUG USERS

To the Editor:

It is wrong to characterize harm reduction as a "deliberately vague idea"
("Small but Forceful Coalition Works to Counter U.S. War on Drugs," news
article, Jan. 2). Harm reduction is an approach that provides services for
drug users without demanding that they stop their drug use.

Many people think these programs, strategically located in hospitals and
high-drug-use communities, are our first line of defense against AIDS and
drug abuse.

Harm reduction is not a front for legalization, but an effective approach
that expands our ability to reach a difficult and volatile population. It
makes clinical and economic sense.