Injection drug users in Toronto: Gender differences and HIV risk taking

Objective. To examine the importance of gender in the HIV epidemic in injection drug users (IDU's) in Toronto.;Methods. This was an analysis of secondary data collected as part of the Toronto Study of Injecting Drug Use and Risk of HIV Infection. Differences between male and female IDUs were compared using Pearson Chi squared and t-tests. Predictors of HIV risk taking were evaluated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression.;Results. Female IDUs differ from males on a number of demographic and drug taking measures. Female IDUs were more likely to both give and take injection equipment. Females were more likely to have a regular sexual partner who injects, and were less likely to use condoms with a regular partner. Females were more likely than males to use condoms during intercourse with a client of the opposite sex.;Conclusion. Male and female IDUs differ in risk taking that may lead to HIV infection.