Individual and social network factors that predict entry to drug treatment

Prospective data were analyzed to examine individual and social network characteristics that predict entry into drug treatment among a sample of 557 heroin and cocaine users. Entering treatment was associated with being HIV positive [AOR: 2.25, 95% CL 1.33-3.81] and a history of drug treatment [AOR: 3.41, 95% CL 2.19-5.31]. Individuals with a greater number of social network members who were in drug treatment [AOR: 1.29, 95% CL: 1.07-1.56] and fewer network members who smoked crack [AOR: 0.86, 95% CP 0.75-0.99] were more likely to enter treatment. Social network-based interventions that promote successful outcomes in drug treatment are needed.