The Asian Harm Reduction Network embarked upon a multi-site research conducted in four countries in Asia including Iran to gain insight in drug careers of young people and the impact of the environment. This article is the abridged synthesis of Tehran research report on knowledge on drug use and its related harms.

It was a qualitative research whose data were gathered through analysis of existing data; interviews with key informants; focus group discussions with family members, PUD (Person using drugs), service providers, policy makers, law enforcement officers; and a quantitative survey with 281 PUDs.

Mass media, governmental and non-governmental organizations can reach a large group of people, whereas school, parents and other family members fail to spread information on health issues such as AIDS and Hepatitis C. Drug related issues are commonly discussed with fellow PUD. Knowledge levels among PUDs in regards to HIV transmission are low. Knowledge on Hepatitis C is extremely low. The image of a drug does not significantly differ between PUDs who have used that particular drug and those who haven't. Most non-PIDs despite PIDs (People injecting drugs) are aware of health risks related to injecting and this is a major factor in the decision not to inject. The addictive nature of injecting is widely recognized amongst PIDs, yet PIDs remain optimistic about the possibility to be able to abstain.

Policy makers are urged to plan more towards youth in the field of education to reach the general population with information regarding HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis.