After a brief review on the challenges to approach AIDS and HIV transmission, especially among drug users, some theoretical models that try to explain and relate substance use and abuse and HIV exposure are described. Core concepts of social learning theories are also described and applied as a basis to the understanding of behaviors associated to drug use, emphasizing the importance of the user's surrounding environment. The classical Health Belief Model is also illustrated, highlighting its role in the development of actions and preventive programs associated to AIDS. Finally, based on the models described, an original model on HIV exposure among drug users is proposed, in which elements related to information, schooling, gender, and age serve as a guidance and interfere with the attitudes regarding drug use and risk perception, generating a cascade effect that leads to the increase of HIV infection among these individuals.
HIV; AIDS; AIDS; Drug abuse
