A study done for the Saskatchewan government has found that the province's needle exchange program is meeting the goal of reducing the spread of disease.

The review found that an estimated four million needles are provided each year to Saskatchewan's five-thousand intravenous drug users.

It estimates that instances of illnesses, such as H-I-V and hepatitis C, have been reduced by up to one-third among drug users, saving an estimated four million dollars in health-care costs annually.

Health Minister Don McMorris says he's pleased with the review.