Cambodia launches first methadone programme for heroin addicts

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by Change | 15 Sep 2010

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Cambodia has launched its first heroin addiction programme using methadone.

The first drug addiction programme tailored for heroin users has been established in Cambodia, it has been revealed.

Until now, the country's government has used treatment centres that have been widely condemned by human right groups because of their focus on hard, physical work, the BBC reports.

In a new approach, the first programme using methadone has been launched - something that's the result of years of campaigning by groups helping those with drug addictions.

Outreach initiatives will be run by two organisations, and each will be responsible for identifying those in need of drug addiction intervention.

If the patients are cooperative, they will then be assessed in a World Health Organization-supported clinic that conforms to international standards.

The international health profession has welcomed the development, although worries remain about Cambodia's existing drug addiction centres.

Meanwhile, The New York Times reported earlier this year that US-based monitoring group Human Rights Group had uncovered details of abuse at 11 of the country's government-run drug addiction facilities.

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