Does it seem like there are more needles lying around these days, whether downtown or in your neighborhood? You're not alone.

The Chronicle investigates, and finds new stats and sources to back up the general impression of a rising incidence of used-needle dumps around the city in recent years.

Why? Along with nationwide increases in meth and heroin, related injection drug usage has increased locally, rules have changed to make it easier to get fresh needles without exchanging your old ones, and more homeless are being roused from hangout spots in central areas.

The Examiner notes, however, that a new city study shows the number of streets where any needles or feces or condoms were found has dropped from last year to this year. So by that combined measure street cleanliness is is improving overall.

The existing or proposed solutions are naturally topics of hot debate — from tighter rules around free needle exchanges, to more drop boxes, safe injection sites, and broader changes in drug enforcement and city policies.

What do you think should be done?