HIV, Hepatitis and Other Infectious Diseases
Many addicts need to "hit bottom" before they seek help; Pedro was always able to find "a trap door". In 1986, however, at age 29, he found himself at a turning point when he discovered he was infected with the AIDS virus. "At the time I was high on heroin, so I didn't really get it. When the diagnosis finally sank in, it was a shocking wake-up call."
Source: Moyers on Addiction: Close to Home
Drug abuse not only weakens the immune system but is also linked to risky behaviors like needle sharing and unsafe sex. The combination greatly increases the likelihood of acquiring HIV-AIDS, hepatitis and many other infectious diseases.
Drugs that can lead to HIV, Hepatitis and other infectious diseases:
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Drugs, Brains, and Behavior - The Science of Addiction
As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior.
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