Pubdate: Mon, 10 Sep 2007 Source: Worcester Telegram & Gazette (MA) Copyright: 2007 Worcester Telegram & Gazette Contact: http://www.telegram.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/509 Note: Rarely prints LTEs from outside circulation area - requires 'Letter to the Editor' in subject YELLOW BOXES The Central Issue Is Addiction, Not Addicts' Litter Reviving an initiative first floated two years ago, the Worcester Board of Health plans to deploy several bright yellow drop-boxes so addicts can dispose of used hypodermic needles responsibly. If the initiative helps to draw attention to the scourge of drug addiction and the continuing spread of AIDS among needle-sharing addicts, it will have served at least a small purpose. Make no mistake, though: It would be wildly overoptimistic to suggest, as some proponents of "Operation Yellow Box" do, that the program will slow the spread of AIDS in any significant way or reduce measurably the dangerous drug-abuse litter left by addicts in parks and other public places. The idea, promoted by state health officials and floated in Worcester two years ago, was sidelined by opposition. Some residents complained it would condone intravenous drug abuse -- although the point about sending the wrong message seems moot now that state law permits the over-the-counter sale of hypodermic needles and syringes. Other residents have expressed doubt that addicts would even use the boxes. Indeed, given the self-destructive nature of heroin addiction, it seems unlikely many addicts place responsible disposal of needles very high on their priority lists. Still, Worcester's public health commissioner, Dr. Leonard J. Morse, may be right in saying that the initiative, funded by a private foundation and the state Department of Public Health, is worth trying on a limited basis. Even if the initiative proves to be largely ineffective, it seems unlikely to do any harm. That said, policymakers should not think for a moment that Operation Yellow Box can play a significant role in reducing drug addiction or the spread of AIDS among addicts. That result can be accomplished only by making timely, effective addiction treatment accessible. Yellow boxes may call attention to the issue, but they should not be mistaken for a solution to the underlying ills. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman