SEX WITH DRUG ADDICT IS LIKELY TO LEAD TO DISEASE

DEAR ABBY: I just read your response to "Nameless in a Red State,"
who asked if she could become addicted to drugs by having sex with an addict.

You were correct to point out that it's important she stay away from
people who are addicted to drugs if she wants to stay clean. I work
in a methadone clinic. My clients know they have to be careful who
their friends are. It is very easy to start using drugs again while
in treatment if you're spending time around people who are using.

I was, however, disappointed that you didn't mention that having sex
with a drug addict is a recipe for getting AIDS and many other
sexually transmitted diseases. (I call it the gift that keeps on
giving.) People must remember that when they have unprotected sex
with someone, they are also having sex with everyone that person has
had sex with. Latex condoms are the best defense against sexually
transmitted diseases.

- -- R.N. IN BLUE NEW JERSEY

DEAR R.N.: I'm sorry you were disappointed that my answer didn't go
far enough; however, the woman's question was, "Can I become addicted
to drugs by having sex with an addict?" I answered her question
factually and specifically.

I also heard from a physician who felt I should have elaborated
further. Read on:

DEAR ABBY: In your reply to the writer, you failed to mention the
most dangerous complications of such behavior, infection with
potentially fatal diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or AIDS.
There is a high incidence of these diseases among drug addicts
because of the sharing of contaminated needles, and they can also be
transmitted through sexual relations.

- -- ALEXANDER N. ZINN, M.D., WINNETKA, CALIF.

DEAR DR. ZINN: Your letter makes me wonder how many lives could be
saved if clean-needle exchange programs were available in every city.
Thank you for clarifying my answer.