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Barsh D, Awuonda M, McCants T, Daftary M, Wingate L, Ettienne E, Chapman E, Lyons J. National trends in reported past year opioid misuse among black women. J Natl Med Assoc 2024; 116:271-282. [PMID: 38413269 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnma.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid crisis within the United States has been widely studied; however, some gaps within the literature still exist. There is limited information on trends in opioid misuse as it relates to income among a national sample of Black Women. Given the recent increase in opioid overdose deaths in Black Americans and the vulnerability of women who misuse opioids, research in this population is important. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to evaluate trends of past year opioid misuse (PYOM) among Black women by income over the study period. METHODS A cross-sectional study among adult aged Black women captured in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) from 2015 to 2019 was conducted. Descriptive statistics for all study variables was conducted. Weighted logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate predictors of PYOM. A stratified analysis was also conducted to examine possible differences between income strata on predictors of PYOM. RESULTS A total of 15,196 Black women were included in the study (16,008,921 weighted visits). Among the women included, 41.5% were age 50+, 57.7% were unemployed, 63.8% reported very good/good health, 59.5% had past year alcohol use, 44.1% had never been married, 39.1% received government assistance, and 90.1% resided in a metro area. An estimated 3.14% of Black women reported PYOM. Findings from the regression analysis showed that Black women who were between 18 and 25, had past year major depressive episode, had alcohol use, illicit drug use, and who received government assistance had significantly greater odds of PYOM. Those reporting an excellent general health rating and higher education had significantly lower odds of PYOM. Income was not associated with PYOM in this study. CONCLUSION Overall, income was not found to be a significant predictor of PYOM. However, income was found to modify the effects of major depressive episode and alcohol use on PYOM, especially among Black women who reported earning ≥$75,000/year. These findings suggest that high-earning Black women may be just as at risk for opioid misuse as low-earning Black women. Further studies are warranted to explore these effects among other gender/racial groups to determine if this trend is unique to Black women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbynie Barsh
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - Mary Awuonda
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States.
| | - Tamara McCants
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - Monika Daftary
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - La'Marcus Wingate
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - Earl Ettienne
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - Edwin Chapman
- Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
| | - Jessica Lyons
- Howard University College of Pharmacy, 2300 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059, United States
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2
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Rigg KK, Kusiak ES, Rigg LK. Motivations for Misusing Opioids Among African Americans. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:240-249. [PMID: 38258821 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231214118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide range of opioid misuse motives have been documented in the literature, including to relieve physical pain, feel good/get high, relax, manage feelings/emotions, sleep, and moderate the effects of other substances. Despite a rise in opioid misuse among African Americans over the last 2 decades, their motivations for misuse remain unclear. Much of the research on opioid misuse motivations either rely on samples with little racial diversity or do not stratify their findings by race. As a result, less is known about the specific reasons why African Americans engage in opioid misuse. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and explain the most common motives for misusing opioids among African Americans. Qualitative interview data are also presented to explain/contextualize the most prevalent motivations. METHODS This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Survey, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of African Americans. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. RESULTS Analyses revealed that while some (33.9%) misused opioids for purposes of recreation/sensation seeking (eg, feel good/get high), the majority (66.1%) were attempting to self-treat perceived medical symptoms (eg, physical pain, anxiety/trauma, withdrawals, insomnia). CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to a better understanding of why some African Americans engage in opioid misuse and findings highlight the need for interventions to be trauma informed and address unmanaged physical pain among African Americans. Given that most studies on motivations are quantitative in nature, the study contributes to the literature by capturing the voices of African Americans who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ethan S Kusiak
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Lindi K Rigg
- School of Psychology and Counseling, Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA, USA
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3
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Mahrs-Gould R, Jallo N, Svikis D, Ameringer S, Robins J, Elswick RK. Family history of substance problems among African Americans: Associations with drug use, drug use disorder, and prescription drug misuse. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-28. [PMID: 38530153 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2331108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
A family history of substance problems is a well-known risk factor for substance use and use disorders; however, much of this research has been conducted in studies with predominantly White subjects. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between family history density of substance problems and drug use, risk for drug use disorder, and prescription drug misuse in a sample of African American adults. Results indicate that family history density of substance problems increased the risk for all drug outcomes in the full sample. However, when subgroup analyses by gender were conducted, family history was not a risk factor among men for prescription drug misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Jallo
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Dace Svikis
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Institute for Women's Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Jo Robins
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - R K Elswick
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Rigg KK. Prescription Opioid Diversion Sources Among African Americans: Implications for Overdose Prevention. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:1271-1274. [PMID: 38501692 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2330901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Recent data show that African Americans (AAs) experienced a greater increase in overdose deaths involving prescription opioids relative to other racial/ethnic groups. One possible mechanism through which elevated risk for overdose is conferred to AAs could be due to greater exposure to contaminated counterfeit pills. Unfortunately, prescription opioid diversion is understudied among AAs and less is known regarding which sources AAs use to access pharmaceutical opioids. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and describe the most commonly used diversion sources for prescription opioids among AAs. Qualitative interview data are also presented to contextualize the most prevalent sources. This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Study, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of AAs. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. Analyses revealed that the most widely used sources for prescription opioids were dealers (33.0%) and friends/relatives (34.7%). Additionally, interview data indicated that dealers are the access point where larger volume acquisitions are made and high potency formulations are accessed. These findings suggest that AAs may utilize nonhealthcare related sources at higher rates than healthcare related sources to acquire prescription opioids. This is concerning because opioid pills acquired through nonhealthcare related sources are especially susceptible to fentanyl adulteration. These findings invite further study using nationally representative data to determine if AAs disproportionately use nonhealthcare related sources compared to persons from other racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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5
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Rigg KK, Weiner MA, Kusiak ES. Patterns of polydrug use among Black Americans who misuse opioids. J Behav Health Serv Res 2024:10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3. [PMID: 38468073 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
In the United States, opioid-related deaths involving polydrug use are now more prevalent than those involving only opioids. What often goes unnoticed is that deaths involving more than one substance are increasing more rapidly among Black Americans than Whites. Unfortunately, little research attention is paid to understanding opioid-related polydrug use patterns among Black Americans. As a result, less is known regarding which drug combinations are most common among this population and their reasons for co-using certain drugs. Therefore, the objective of this mixed methods study was to identify which substances were most commonly co-used with opioids among Black Americans, while also capturing their motives for combining opioids with other drugs. This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Study, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of Black Americans who misuse opioids. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. Analyses revealed that opioids were most commonly combined with alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamine, respectively. Opioids were co-used with alcohol in an attempt to enhance the desired effect (i.e., intoxication), while stimulants and opioids were combined to counteract the undesirable side effects of the other. This study begins to answer the question of which/why substances are combined with opioids among Black Americans and should inform behavioral health interventions targeted at this population. Data on this topic are especially timely as the United States goes through the current fourth wave of the opioid crisis that is characterized by deaths due to polydrug use. These findings invite further study using nationally representative data to determine the extent to which polydrug using patterns differ across racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Michael A Weiner
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Ethan S Kusiak
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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6
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Nicholson HL, Alawode OA, Ford JA. Determinants of prescription opioid misuse among Black Americans: Evidence from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Addict Behav 2024; 149:107890. [PMID: 37857045 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid misuse, including prescription opioid misuse, remains a significant public health concern impacting various ethnoracial groups in the United States, including non-Hispanic Black Americans. This study provides more recent evidence on prescription opioid misuse among Black Americans. METHODS We used data from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health to examine the prevalence and determinants of prescription opioid misuse among Black American adults aged 18 and older. We compared these findings to non-Hispanic White American adults. RESULTS The prevalence rate of past-year prescription opioid misuse was very similar among Black (3.4%) and White respondents (3.8%). Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analyses found no significant racial differences in prescription opioid misuse. Religious importance and rurality were negatively associated with misuse only among Black respondents. Depressive episodes, other drug use, age, and risk-taking behaviors were associated with prescription opioid misuse among both Black and White respondents. CONCLUSION Black and White Americans remain at risk for prescription opioid-related problems. Religiosity and rurality require further investigation to understand how they may impact misuse among Black Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oluwatobi A Alawode
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, United States
| | - Jason A Ford
- Department of Sociology, University of Central Florida, United States
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7
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Wandji SR, Abshire DA, Davis JE, Tavakoli AS, Pope R. Substance use disorders among African-American men in the rural south: A scoping review. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-23. [PMID: 37655703 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2248029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
African American (AA) men in the rural South may be at high risk for experiencing adverse health outcomes from substance use (SU). We conducted a scoping review to explore the research on SU among rural AA men in the rural South of the United States (US). Ten articles addressed the following thematic areas pertaining to SU: factors associated with SU (n = 6), associations between substance use and health outcomes (n = 2), and the influence of impulsivity on SU (n = 2). Additional research on SU among AA men in the rural South is needed, particularly pertaining to treatment-related considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jean E Davis
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | | | - Robert Pope
- Dominican University of California, San Rafael, California
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8
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Rigg KK, Strickland S. Patterns of opioid misuse initiation among African-Americans. DRUGS: EDUCATION, PREVENTION AND POLICY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2023.2173050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Khary K. Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Holmes LM, Rishworth A, King BH. Disparities in opioid overdose survival and naloxone administration in Pennsylvania. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 238:109555. [PMID: 35810621 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pennsylvania has one of the highest opioid overdose rates in the US; however, since 2018 approximately 80% of people who experienced an opioid overdose in the state survived. More attention has been paid to opioid overdose mortality despite notable individual and geographic differences in overdose survival. Naloxone is an essential tool in increasing chances of survival after opioid overdose, but its availability and the rate at which it is administered differs by county in Pennsylvania and nationally. METHODS We use 2018-2020 Pennsylvania Overdose Information Network data on opioid incidents and where they occurred, combined with 2015-2019 American Community Survey data, to evaluate opioid overdose survival and naloxone administration by county over a three-year period. RESULTS Individuals who received at least one dose of naloxone following overdose had 11 times greater odds of survival. White, middle-aged men were least likely to survive opioid overdose. Both survival and naloxone administration rates differed by county with lower rates in less populated counties. CONCLUSION Expanding naloxone distribution and administration and ensuring proper education about standing orders for naloxone administration are important tools for addressing opioid overdose mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa M Holmes
- The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Geography, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Andrea Rishworth
- University of Toronto Mississauga, Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Brian H King
- The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Geography, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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10
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Gray AC, Neitzke-Spruill L, Hughes C, O'Connell DJ, Anderson TL. Opioid-stimulant trends in overdose toxicology by race, ethnicity, & gender: An analysis in Delaware, 2013-2019. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022:1-30. [PMID: 35973048 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2109790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent upticks of stimulant presence in overdose deaths suggest the opioid epidemic is morphing, which raises questions about what drugs are involved and who is impacted. We investigate annual and growth rate trends in combined opioid-stimulant overdose toxicology between 2013 and 2019 for White, Black, and Hispanic male and female decedents in Delaware. During these years, toxicology shifted to illegal drugs for all with fentanyl leading the increase and opioid-cocaine combinations rising substantially. While combined opioid-cocaine toxicology grew among Black and Hispanic Delawareans, White males continue to report the highest rates overall. These findings depart from historical patterns and may challenge existing opioid epidemic policies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel J O'Connell
- Center for Drug and Health Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
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11
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Effects of Unemployment on Opioid Use Treatment Trajectories. J Addict Nurs 2022; 33:168-171. [PMID: 36041159 PMCID: PMC9435955 DOI: 10.1097/jan.0000000000000480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Living with an opioid use disorder (OUD) can make finding and sustaining employment a significant challenge and is only expected to get worse in the COVID-19 environment. For most individuals in OUD treatment, being employed is an important part of their recovery journey. Employment has several benefits, including reductions in preoccupation with symptoms, social isolation, risk of suicide, hopelessness, and economic instability, which if not addressed often result in homelessness. Therefore, employment is an important social determinant of health, especially among those with OUD. Employment success and OUD, however, may vary based on race, age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Return to work support as states begin to reopen will be critically important to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with OUD in a post-COVID-19 environment, requiring utilizations of evidence-based interventions. Nurses, particularly psychiatric mental health and addiction nurses, should routinely screen for employment needs of their patients with OUD and connect them to the necessary support services. Finally, nurses should advocate for regulatory reform that allows for employment support services to be billable and integrated in psychiatric and behavioral health services just like other mental health services.
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12
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Lee HY, Wang K, Choi E, Gajos JM, Won CR. Opioid Literacy Among African Americans Living in Rural Alabama: Findings From a Social Determinants of Health (SDH) Framework. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00220426221093610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Limited research examining opioid literacy among African Americans (AAs) have been conducted. The current study examined the association between opioid literacy levels among AAs in rural Alabama using the social determinants of health framework. Three subscales in the Brief Opioid Overdose Knowledge questionnaire were used to measure opioid literacy. Among a sample of 253, limited opioid literacy was found. Social contact was found to be significantly associated with overall opioid literacy (B = .36, p < .05) and opioid general knowledge subscale (B = .14, p < .05). For the subscale of opioid overdose response knowledge, health insurance (B =−.59, p = .06) and social contact (B = .13, p = .07) emerged as marginally significant. The findings suggest that educational interventions are needed to increase opioid literacy among rural AAs, especially among those with limited social contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Yun Lee
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Kun Wang
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Eunyoung Choi
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jamie M. Gajos
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Cho Rong Won
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
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13
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Werb D, Scheim AI, Soipe A, Aeby S, Rammohan I, Fischer B, Hadland SE, Marshall BDL. Health harms of non-medical prescription opioid use: A systematic review. Drug Alcohol Rev 2022; 41:941-952. [PMID: 35437841 PMCID: PMC9064965 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
ISSUES Non-medical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) contributes substantially to the global burden of morbidity. However, no systematic assessment of the scientific literature on the associations between NMPOU and health outcomes has yet been undertaken. APPROACH We undertook a systematic review evaluating health outcomes related to NMPOU based on ICD-10 clinical domains. We searched 13 electronic databases for original research articles until 1 July 2021. We employed an adaptation of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 'Levels of Evidence' scale to assess study quality. KEY FINDINGS Overall, 182 studies were included. The evidence base was largest on the association between NMPOU and mental and behavioural disorders; 71% (129) studies reported on these outcomes. Less evidence exists on the association of NMPOU with infectious disease outcomes (26; 14%), and on external causes of morbidity and mortality, with 13 (7%) studies assessing its association with intentional self-harm and 1 study assessing its association with assault (<1%). IMPLICATIONS A large body of evidence has identified associations between NMPOU and opioid use disorder as well as on fatal and non-fatal overdose. We found equivocal evidence on the association between NMPOU and the acquisition of HIV, hepatitis C and other infectious diseases. We identified weak evidence regarding the potential association between NMPOU and intentional self-harm, suicidal ideation and assault. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Findings may inform the prevention of harms associated with NMPOU, although higher-quality research is needed to characterise the association between NMPOU and the full spectrum of physical and mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Werb
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA.,Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Ayorinde Soipe
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, State University of New York, New York, USA
| | - Samantha Aeby
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Indhu Rammohan
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Scott E Hadland
- Grayken Center for Addiction and Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, USA.,Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
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14
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Nicholson HL, Wheeler PB, Smith NC, Alawode OA. Examining the Relationship between Discrimination and Prescription Drug Misuse: Findings from a National Survey of Black Americans. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:1014-1021. [PMID: 35395923 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2052096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Research shows that substance use may be a way individuals cope with psychosocial stressors. Less is known about whether discrimination contributes to prescription drug misuse. Methods: Using a national sample of Black Americans, we examined whether two psychosocial stressors (i.e., everyday and lifetime major discrimination) were associated with lifetime prescription drug misuse (i.e., opioids, tranquilizers, sedatives, or stimulants). Results: Our logistic regression models separately examining the influence of everyday and major discrimination controlling for relevant demographic, health, and other drug use variables showed that only everyday discrimination was associated with higher odds of prescription drug misuse. In the model simultaneously considering both types of discrimination, only unit increases in everyday discrimination were associated with higher odds of prescription drug misuse. Conclusions: Encounters with everyday discrimination may be an important psychosocial stressor linked to prescription drug misuse in Black adults and possibly other racial-ethnic minorities. Intervention strategies aiming to reduce prescription drug misuse should consider developing ways to curb the negative health-related consequences of discriminatory experiences. Strategies to combat discrimination-related prescription drug misuse and limitations of this study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey L Nicholson
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paris B Wheeler
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Nicholas C Smith
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Oluwatobi A Alawode
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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15
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Nguemo Djiometio JB, Buzuayew A, Mohamud H, Njoroge I, Kahan M, Nelson LE. Effectiveness of opiate substitution treatment in reducing HIV risk behaviors among African, Caribbean, and Black people: a systematic review. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 19:1887-1914. [PMID: 33851941 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-20-00223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this systematic review is to identify, appraise, and synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness of opioid substitution treatment in reducing HIV risk behavior among African, Caribbean, and Black people. INTRODUCTION Substance use plays an important role in HIV transmission among Black people by increasing risky sexual behavior and the risk of HIV acquisition. Opioid substitution treatment, such as methadone maintenance treatment and buprenorphine therapy, has been found to be an effective measure to minimize HIV transmission attributable to opioid addiction. INCLUSION CRITERIA The current review considered studies that included African, Caribbean, and Black adult patients, aged 18 years or over, who have used methadone maintenance treatment or buprenorphine therapies as part of the intervention for opioid use disorders and have been evaluated for sex- and drug-related HIV risk behaviors. This review considered studies that have evaluated the impact of methadone maintenance treatment or buprenorphine therapy on sex- and drug-related HIV risk behaviors. METHODS Multiple databases were searched, including Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, OpenGrey, Grey Matters, New York Academy of Medicine Grey Literature Report, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. Two reviewers independently assessed all titles and abstracts, and potentially relevant studies were retrieved in full. Papers selected for retrieval were assessed by two independent reviewers for methodological validity. Data were then extracted from papers. Statistical pooling of quantitative data and meta-analysis was not possible due to heterogeneity of data. RESULTS Five articles were included in this review: three randomized controlled trials, one cohort study, and one quasi-experimental study. Four studies focused on methadone maintenance treatment and one study discussed the effectiveness of buprenorphine intervention. All studies were from the United States. One study enrolled participants in methadone maintenance treatment for heroin injectors, of which 10% of the sample was HIV positive. These papers included studies that reported a significant reduction in sex-related HIV risk behavior, including having multiple sex partners, frequency of sexual intercourse, condom use, prostitution, and sex trade. Of the five studies, two reported on drug-related HIV risk behaviors, citing a reduction in drug-related HIV risk behaviors. Also, these papers showed unexpected outcomes relating to frequency of sexual intercourse, prostitution, and sex trade. One study reported a significantly higher number of sexual encounters among persons not participating in treatment. One study reported decreasing prostitution and sex trade among individuals receiving methadone maintenance treatment intervention. CONCLUSION Methadone maintenance treatment or buprenorphine therapy can be effective in reducing sex- and drug-related HIV risk behaviors among African, Caribbean, and Black people. However, due to the weaknesses in the body of evidence and the quality of evidence, it is not possible to make strong conclusions about these interventions. Rigorous studies are necessary to generate more findings and reinforce the body of literature. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42019126954.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Nguemo Djiometio
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Asfaw Buzuayew
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hodan Mohamud
- Human Biology Program, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Irene Njoroge
- Substance Abuse Service/Addictions Medicine, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Meldon Kahan
- Substance Abuse Service/Addictions Medicine, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Yale School of Nursing, Orange, CT, USA
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16
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Jordan A, Mathis M, Haeny A, Funaro M, Paltin D, Ransome Y. An Evaluation of Opioid Use in Black Communities: A Rapid Review of the Literature. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2021; 29:108-130. [PMID: 33666395 PMCID: PMC8335706 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are multiple aspects of the opioid crisis among Black people, who have been left out of the broader conversation. Despite evidence of increased opioid overdose deaths, less is known about opioid use among Black people. This review synthesizes research on Black people who use opioids; the goals are to advance knowledge, highlight research gaps, and inform clinical practice. METHODS This rapid review investigating opioid use among Black people utilized systematic review methods and was conducted according to a predefined protocol with clear inclusion criteria (PROSPERO ID: 177071). A comprehensive search strategy was used, including published and gray-literature sources (i.e., literature that has not been formally published). A narrative summary of the results is presented. RESULTS A total of 76 works were selected for inclusion and full text review. Sex, age, geographic location, and involvement in the carceral system were associated with the use of opioids among Black individuals. Non-epidemiologic factors included treatment-seeking patterns, disparate clinician prescribing, and social determinants. CONCLUSIONS Through this rapid review we suggest three main areas of focus: (1) including culturally informed collection methods in epidemiologic surveys to accurately reflect prevalences, (2) funding research that specifically addresses the importance of culture in accessing treatment, and (3) directly studying how social determinants can improve or exacerbate health outcomes. Focusing on the unique needs of Black people who use opioids is warranted to increase treatment initiation and adherence among a population less likely to engage with the traditional health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayana Jordan
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Myra Mathis
- University of Rochester, Department of Psychiatry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Angela Haeny
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Division of Prevention and Community Research, and The Consultation Center 389 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Melissa Funaro
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8014
| | - Dafna Paltin
- Yale University, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Yusuf Ransome
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Studies of Religion Ethnicity Technology and Contextual Influences on Health (STRETCH)-Lab, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510
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17
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Nicholson HL, Wheeler PB. Prescription Drug Misuse among African Americans and Afro Caribbeans: Results from the National Survey of American Life. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:962-970. [PMID: 33769198 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1901928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The misuse of prescription medications is an understudied topic among the non-Hispanic Black population in the U.S. Even less is known about the prevalence and correlates of misuse among African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans, despite documented differences in their substance use behaviors. OBJECTIVES We aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of lifetime prescription drug misuse among African Americans and Afro Caribbeans using data from the National Survey of American Life. METHODS A national household probability sample of non-institutionalized African Americans and Afro Caribbeans from the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys was used. Pooled and ethnicity-stratified logistic regressions were estimated. RESULTS Findings showed no significant differences between African Americans (6.36%) and Afro-Caribbeans (5.71%) in lifetime prescription drug misuse. Several correlates were found to be associated with misuse among only African American or Afro-Caribbean respondents. CONCLUSIONS While research has shown prescription drug misuse is an issue among Blacks overall, our results show that the role of ethnicity must not be overlooked, especially when tailoring prevention and intervention programs. Limitations of this study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey L Nicholson
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Florida, USA
| | - Paris B Wheeler
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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18
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Stevens-Watkins D. Opioid-related overdose deaths among African Americans: Implications for research, practice and policy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 39:857-861. [PMID: 32281200 PMCID: PMC7554142 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Opioid-related overdose deaths among African Americans have only recently received national attention despite evidence of increase in death rates among this population spanning the past decade. Numerous authors have highlighted how the 'opioid epidemic' has largely been portrayed as a problem mostly affecting White America. The purpose of this commentary is to provide a synthesis spotlighting the unique structural and cultural considerations involved in research, practice and policy related to opioid use and treatment for opioid use disorders among African Americans. The commentary concludes with considerations for future research and practice intended to reduce deaths among this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danelle Stevens-Watkins
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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19
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Drake J, Charles C, Bourgeois JW, Daniel ES, Kwende M. Exploring the impact of the opioid epidemic in Black and Hispanic communities in the United States. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2050324520940428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Context: In recent years, due to an alarming increase in the number of opioid-related overdose fatalities for White, Non-Hispanics in rural and suburban communities across the United States, they have been considered as the face of this epidemic. However, there has also been a staggering rise in the number of opioid overdoses in urban, minority communities, which have not been thoroughly addressed by the literature. Methods We reviewed deaths where opioid-related substances were reported as the leading cause of death to the Centers of Disease Control Multiple Cause of Death database from 1999 to 2017. Deaths were analyzed by year, State, drug type, and race and ethnicity. Results There were 399,230 total opioid-related deaths from 1999 to 2017 amongst all ethnic groups in the U.S. During this timeframe, approximately 323,939 total deaths were attributed to White, Non-Hispanics, while 75,291 were attributed to all other ethnicities. Examination of opioid-related overdose death data by ethnicity reveals that while White, Non-Hispanics have experienced the largest numbers of opioid-related overdose deaths in the U.S with up to 37,113 deaths occurring during 2017, there has also been a sharp rise in the number of opioid-related overdose deaths for minorities. opioid-related overdose deaths for Black, Non-Hispanics climbed from 1130 deaths in 1999 to 5513 deaths in 2017, while opioid-related overdose deaths for Hispanics climbed from 1058 in 1999 to 3932 in 2017. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over the past 19 years, age-adjusted opioid-related deaths for Hispanics have climbed from 3.5 overdoses per 100,000 in 1999 to 6.8 overdoses per 100,000 in 2017. However, greater increases have been reported for Blacks during the same 19-year timeframe with age-adjusted rates of 3.5 overdoses per population of 100,000 in 1999 to 12.9 overdoses per population of 100,000 in 2017. Conclusion While Opioid-related overdoses have overwhelmingly plagued rural and suburban White, Non-Hispanic communities, there has been a surge in the number of deaths in Black and Hispanic Minority communities in recent years. Although there have been significant increases in the number of opioid-related overdose deaths in Black and Hispanic communities, the media narrative for this epidemic is often portrayed as a White, Non-Hispanic rural and suburban crisis. As a result, intervention strategies and policies have failed, both, to assess the severity of the problem in minority communities and to offer culturally sensitive preventative and treatment solutions. In this paper, the impact of the opioid epidemic on Black and Hispanic minority communities will be presented. Racial disparities in the U.S. Government’s current approach to an epidemic, which plagues rural and suburban White America, will be compared to its past criminal justice response to drug pandemics in urban minority communities. Culturally sensitive policy considerations and recommendations that can be used to, both, mitigate and offer treatment options for the opioid epidemic in these minority communities will also be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Drake
- Texas Southern University Center for Justice Research, USA
| | - Creaque Charles
- Texas Southern University College of Pharmacy and Health Science, USA
| | | | | | - Melissa Kwende
- Texas Southern University Center for Justice Research, USA
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20
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Ransome Y, Haeny AM, McDowell YE, Jordan A. Religious involvement and racial disparities in opioid use disorder between 2004-2005 and 2012-2013: Results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 205:107615. [PMID: 31704384 PMCID: PMC6927538 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychosocial factors have rarely been studied to understand racial differences in opioid use disorders (OUD). We investigate religious involvement and Black-White differences in OUD risk between 2004-05 and 2012-13. METHODS We use Non-Hispanic Black and White adults from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (wave 2, N = 26,661 and NESARC-III, N = 26,960) (NESARC). We conducted survey-weighted logistic regression to examine whether race moderates the association between religious involvement and lifetime DSM-IV and -5 OUD and whether those differences change (i.e., are modified) by time, adjusted for covariates such as age, education, and urbanicity. Religious involvement measures were service attendance, social interaction, and subjective religiosity/spirituality. RESULTS The prevalence of lifetime DSM-IV (3.82 vs 1.66) and DSM-5 (2.49 vs 1.32) OUD in NESARC-III was higher among White compared to Black respondents. Never attending services declined for both races over time. Race moderated the association between service attendance (F(4,65) = 14.9, p = 0.000), social interaction (F(4,65) = 34.4, p = 0.000) and subjective religiosity/spirituality (F(2,65) = 7.03, p = 0.000) on DSM-IV OUD in wave 2 and using DSM-5 OUD in NESARC-III (F(1,113) = 2.79, p = 0.066). Race differences in religion and DSM-IV OUD risk was modified by time (i.e., survey year) (all p < 0.000). For instance, higher service attendance was associated with lower DSM-IV risk for Black respondents in wave 2 but higher risk in NESARC-III. There were no changes in regression slopes among White respondents. CONCLUSIONS Religious involvement may be important for prevention and treatment practices that respond to racial differences in risk of OUD. Replicate studies should examine other religious factors and specific types of opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ransome
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Studies of Religion Ethnicity Technology and Contextual Influences on Health (STRETCH)-Lab, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510.
| | - Angela M Haeny
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Division of Prevention and Community Research, and The Consultation Center 389 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511
| | - Yoanna E McDowell
- University of Missouri, Alcohol, Health, and Behavior Lab, Department of Psychological Sciences, 146 Psychology Building, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Ayana Jordan
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, and Connecticut Mental Health Center 40 Temple Street, New Haven, CT 06510
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