SAFE INJECTION MAY SAVE SYSTEM $14-MILLION

Vancouver's safe-injection site will save the health-care system at
least $14-million and prevent more than 1,000 HIV infections over a
10-year period, according to a new study about the controversial program.

The study, published today in the Canadian Medical Association
Journal, is the latest piece of research to suggest the potential
social benefit of Insite in helping curb substance abuse, and
reducing the spread of hepatitis C, HIV and other infectious diseases.

"We were a bit surprised. The model really suggests that there are
very considerable benefits," said Ahmed Bayoumi, lead author and
scientist at the Centre for Research on Inner City Health in Toronto.