1
|
Masoudkabir F, Shafiee A, Heidari A, Mohammadi NSH, Tavakoli K, Jalali A, Nayebirad S, Alaeddini F, Saadat S, Vasheghani-Farahani A, Sadeghian S, Arita VA, Boroumand M, Karimi A. Epidemiology of substance and opium use among adult residents of Tehran; a comprehensive report from Tehran cohort study (TeCS). BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:132. [PMID: 38365633 PMCID: PMC10870582 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05561-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence and burden of substance and opium use have increased worldwide over the past decades. In light of rapid population changes in Tehran, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of opium and other substance use among adult residents in Tehran, Iran. METHOD From March 2016 to March 2019, we utilized data from 8 296 participants in the Tehran Cohort Study recruitment phase (TeCS). We calculated the age-sex-weighted prevalence of substance use and the geographic distribution of substance use in Tehran. We also used logistic regression analysis to determine possible determinants of opium use. RESULT We analyzed data from 8 259 eligible participants with complete substance use data and the average age of participants was 53.7 ± 12.75 years. The prevalence of substance use was 5.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.6- 7.1%). Substance use was more common in males than females (Prevalence: 10.5% [95% CI: 8.6- 12.6%] vs. 0.5% [95% CI: 0.2- 1.2%], respectively). The age-sex weighted prevalence of substance use was 5.4% (95% CI: 4.6-7.1%). Moreover, opium was the most frequently used substance by 95.8% of substance users. Additionally, we found that male gender (Odds ratio [OR]: 12.1, P < 0.001), alcohol intake (OR: 1.3, P = 0.016), and smoking (OR: 8.5, P < 0.001) were independently associated with opium use. CONCLUSIONS We found that the prevalence of substance use in Tehran was 5.6%, and opium was the most frequently used substance. In addition, male gender, lower levels of education, alcohol, and tobacco consumption are the main risk factors for substance use in Tehran. Healthcare providers and policymakers can utilize our results to implement preventive strategies to minimize substance use in Tehran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Masoudkabir
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Shafiee
- Tehran Heart Center , Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Heidari
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Sadat Hosseini Mohammadi
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiarash Tavakoli
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Jalali
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Tehran Heart Center, North Kargar Ave, 1411713138, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepehr Nayebirad
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshid Alaeddini
- Tehran Heart Center , Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheil Saadat
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ali Vasheghani-Farahani
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Sadeghian
- Tehran Heart Center , Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Vicente Artola Arita
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mohamamdali Boroumand
- Tehran Heart Center , Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Karimi
- Tehran Heart Center , Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Haddad S, Shawa M, Kane JC, Bwalya B, Sienkiewicz M, Kilbane G, Chibemba V, Chiluba P, Mtongo N, Metz K, Chibwe M, Mushabati N, Zulu A, Paul R, Banda Z, Loongo H, Kamanga M, Greene MC. Alcohol and other drug use patterns and services in an integrated refugee settlement in Northern Zambia: a formative research study. Confl Health 2023; 17:40. [PMID: 37620915 PMCID: PMC10464007 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00538-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on patterns of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and how to effectively deliver services to address AOD use in humanitarian settings is limited. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the patterns of AOD use among Congolese refugees in Mantapala Refugee Settlement and members of the surrounding host community and identify potential appropriate intervention and implementation approaches to address AOD use disorders among conflict-affected populations. METHODS Fifty free listing interviews, 25 key informant interviews, and four focus group discussions were conducted among refugees, host community members, humanitarian implementing agency staff, and refugee incentive workers. These participants were selected based on their knowledge of AOD use and related problems in the settlement and the surrounding host community in northern Zambia. RESULTS Cannabis and home-brewed alcohol were the substances that were perceived to be most commonly used and have the greatest impact on the community. Participants reported that self-medication, boredom, and relief of daily stressors associated with lack of housing, safety, and employment were reasons that people used AODs. Participants recommended that programming include components to address the underlying causes of AOD use, such as livelihood activities. Stigma due to the criminalization of and societal ideals and religious beliefs regarding AOD use was identified as a substantial barrier to accessing and seeking treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our study's findings indicate the need for services to address AOD use in Mantapala Refugee Settlement. Interventions should consider the social and structural determinants of AOD use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Haddad
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Mbaita Shawa
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jeremy C Kane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | | | - Megan Sienkiewicz
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Grace Kilbane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Veronica Chibemba
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Princess Chiluba
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nkumbu Mtongo
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kristina Metz
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mildred Chibwe
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Allan Zulu
- CARE Zambia, PO Box 36238, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ravi Paul
- School of Medicine, University of Zambia, University Teaching Hospital, PO Box 50110, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Zaliwe Banda
- Zambia Ministry of Health, PO Box 30205, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Muzi Kamanga
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - M Claire Greene
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Damiri B, Daraghma M. The epidemiology of substance use in the West Bank: Who is at risk? J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37104697 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2204464] [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: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Illicit drug use is bound by a religious, social, and cultural stigma in Palestine. The extent of illicit drug use in Palestine is difficult to estimate due to the limited availability of research and challenged by poor measurement and inconsistent reporting. Concern about the hidden nature of drug use continues to be reported. We investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with illicit drug use in the north of the West Bank. We compared the results between refugee camps and rural and urban areas. The recruited males (N = 1045) were invited to fill out a self-administrated questionnaire and to give urine samples in 2022. Multi-line drug screen test in urine was used as a screening tool to evaluate the presence of 12-drugs in urine samples. The respondents (N = 656) were aged 15-58 years. At least one drug was detected positive in 19.1% of the participants' urine samples, with the highest percentages among refugees (25.9%), followed by rural (13.6%) and urban participants (10.9%) (P-value < 0.001). Moreover, around half of the drug users were multidrug users. Refugees were 3.8 times (P-value = 0.002), and urban were 2.3 times (P-value = 0.033) more likely to be drug users than rural participants. Besides the geographical factors, socio-demographic factors like age (<30 years), marital status (single), drinking alcohol, and vape-smoking played significant roles in the increasing risk of illicit drug use in the West Bank. The findings from this study draw attention to our limited understanding of the epidemiology of substance use among Palestinians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Basma Damiri
- Medicine & Health Sciences Faculty, Drug, and Toxicology Division, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghma
- Medicine & Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kyaw KWY, Platt L, Bijl M, Rathod SD, Naing AY, Roberts B. The effect of different types of migration on symptoms of anxiety or depression and experience of violence among people who use or inject drugs in Kachin State, Myanmar. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:45. [PMID: 37013591 PMCID: PMC10068727 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00766-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on the social determinants of mental health conditions and violence among people who inject or use drugs (PWUD) is limited, particularly in conflict-affected countries. We estimated the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety or depression and experience of emotional or physical violence among PWUD in Kachin State in Myanmar and examined their association with structural determinants, focusing on types of past migration (migration for any reason, economic or forced displacement). MATERIALS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among PWUD attending a harm reduction centre between July and November 2021 in Kachin State, Myanmar. We used logistic regression models to measure associations between past migration, economic migration and forced displacement on two outcomes (1) symptoms of anxiety or depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-4) and (2) physical or emotional violence (last 12 months), adjusted for key confounders. RESULTS A total of 406, predominantly male (96.8%), PWUD were recruited. The median age (IQR) was 30 (25, 37) years, most injected drugs (81.5%) and more commonly opioid substances such as heroin or opium (85%). Symptoms of anxiety or depression (PHQ4 ≥ 6) were high (32.8%) as was physical or emotional violence in the last 12 months (61.8%). Almost one-third (28.3%) had not lived in Waingmaw for their whole life (migration for any reason), 77.9% had left home for work at some point (economic migration) and 19.5% had been forced to leave home due to war or armed conflict (forced displacement). A third were in unstable housing in the last 3 months (30.1%) and reported going hungry in the last 12 months (27.7%). Only forced displacement was associated with symptoms of anxiety or depression [adjusted odds ratio, aOR 2.33 (95% confidence interval, CI 1.32-4.11)] and recent experience of violence [aOR 2.18 (95% CI 1.15-4.15)]. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the importance of mental health services integrated into existing harm reduction services to address high levels of anxiety or depression among PWUD, particularly among those who have been displaced through armed conflict or war. Findings reinforce the need to address broader social determinants, in the form of food poverty, unstable housing and stigma, in order to reduce mental health and violence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khine Wut Yee Kyaw
- Asian Harm Reduction Network (AHRN), Yangon, Myanmar.
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Murdo Bijl
- Asian Harm Reduction Network (AHRN), Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Sujit D Rathod
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Aung Yu Naing
- Asian Harm Reduction Network (AHRN), Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hertner L, Stylianopoulos P, Heinz A, Kluge U, Schäfer I, Penka S. Substance (mis)use among refugees as a matter of social ecology: insights into a multi-site rapid assessment in Germany. Confl Health 2023; 17:1. [PMID: 36658646 PMCID: PMC9850330 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00499-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research concluded that substance (mis)use is increasing among forcibly displaced populations. Nevertheless, little research has been conducted within a social ecological framework aimed at identifying and understanding the factors affecting substance (mis)use embedded in the post-migration context in high-income countries. The present study aims to develop an understanding of the links and underlying mechanisms between refugees' social ecological determinants and substance (mis)using behavior. METHODS Rapid assessments (RAs), including 108 semi-structured interviews and 10 focus group discussions with key persons from various professional, and personal backgrounds, were carried out in German urban and rural areas. The RA approach of interviewing key persons and not solely refugees that (mis)use substances allowed us to gather multi-perspective knowledge on this sensitive topic. Qualitative content analysis was applied, aiming at identifying determinants of substance (mis)use embedded in the post-migration context of refugees and understanding the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS One main result of the data suggests that the link between refugees' countries of origin and their post-migration substance (mis)use is not as direct as often assumed. It is observed that refugees' prospects and opportunities in receiving countries (e.g., work permits) undermine this commonly reproduced link. Further determinants are related to living conditions in German refugee shelters and social relations with peers and families. The influence of refugees' living conditions can be summarized as potentially increasing substance availability and distress, whereas family separation produces a loss of control and responsibility, increasing the risk for substance (mis)use. Peers' influence on substance (mis)use was reported to reflect a search for a sense of belonging. CONCLUSIONS Given that refugees who (mis)use substances have limited to no control over the factors identified in our study to be associated with substance (mis)use, common treatment and prevention approaches are challenged. Furthermore, we recommend aiming for a holistic comprehension of refugees' substance (mis)use by expanding the focus beyond individuals to the social ecological context in any attempt, including prevention, treatment, research, and policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hertner
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at the Charité Campus Mitte, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Panagiotis Stylianopoulos
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at the Charité Campus Mitte, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Heinz
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at the Charité Campus Mitte, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany ,grid.7468.d0000 0001 2248 7639Berlin Institute for Empirical Integration and Migration Research at the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Kluge
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at the Charité Campus Mitte, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany ,grid.7468.d0000 0001 2248 7639Berlin Institute for Empirical Integration and Migration Research at the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Simone Penka
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at the Charité Campus Mitte, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kane JC, Kamanga M, Skavenski S, Murray LK, Shawa M, Bwalya B, Metz K, Paul R, Mushabati N, Ventevogel P, Haddad S, Kilbane G, Sienkiewicz M, Chibemba V, Chiluba P, Mtongo N, Chibwe M, Figge CJ, Alto M, Mwanza D, Mupinde E, Kakumbi S, Tol WA, Vaughan K, Banda Z, Busse A, Ezard N, Zulu A, Loongo H, Greene MC. Testing a Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment Intervention Approach for Addressing Unhealthy Alcohol and Other Drug Use in Humanitarian Settings: Protocol of the Ukuundapwa Chapamo Randomised Controlled Trial. INTERVENTION (AMSTELVEEN, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 21:58-69. [PMID: 37228642 PMCID: PMC10206531 DOI: 10.4103/intv.intv_21_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Refugees and other displaced persons are exposed to many risk factors for unhealthy alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and concomitant mental health problems. Evidence-based services for AOD use and mental health comorbidities are rarely available in humanitarian settings. In high income countries, screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment (SBIRT) systems can provide appropriate care for AOD use but have rarely been used in low- and middle-income countries and to our knowledge never tested in a humanitarian setting. This paper describes the protocol for a randomised controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of an SBIRT system featuring the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA) to treatment as usual in reducing unhealthy AOD use and mental health comorbidities among refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and host community members in an integrated settlement in northern Zambia. The trial is an individually randomised, single-blind, parallel design with outcomes assessed at 6-months (primary) and 12-months post-baseline. Participants are Congolese refugees and Zambians in the host community, 15 years of age or older with unhealthy alcohol use. Outcomes are: unhealthy alcohol use (primary), other drug use, depression, anxiety and traumatic stress. The trial will explore SBIRT acceptability, appropriateness, cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and reach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy C. Kane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Muzi Kamanga
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Laura K. Murray
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mbaita Shawa
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Kristina Metz
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ravi Paul
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health Section, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie Haddad
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Grace Kilbane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Megan Sienkiewicz
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Nkumbu Mtongo
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Caleb J. Figge
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michelle Alto
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David Mwanza
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mupinde
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shira Kakumbi
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Wietse A. Tol
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Anja Busse
- United Nations Office on Drug Use and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nadine Ezard
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - M. Claire Greene
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Khoshnood K, Smoyer AB, Maviglia F, Kara J, Khouri D, Fouad FM, Heimer R. Stress, Marginalization, and Disruption: A Qualitative Rapid Situational Assessment of Substance Users and HIV Risk in Lebanon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159242. [PMID: 35954600 PMCID: PMC9368310 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Lebanon is a diverse and dynamic nation of six million people that has experienced considerable disruption for the last two decades. The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, resulted in the displacement of 1.1 million Syrians to Lebanon. Today, Lebanon is the country with the largest per capita number of refugees in the world. In addition, the country experienced a social, economic, and political crisis in 2019 that destabilized the entire society-circumstances that were further complicated by COVID-19 pandemic. With all of the competing calamities in Lebanon, there has been limited scientific investigation into substance use and the risk of HIV infection among the country's population. To address this gap in knowledge, a qualitative rapid situational assessment (RSA) of substance use and risk of HIV infection in and around Beirut, the nation's capital, was conducted. The goal of this analysis is to describe the demographics and drug use patterns of this population, explore their HIV knowledge and risks, and build knowledge about their perceptions of and access to substance use treatment and other social services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Khoshnood
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS at Yale, Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (F.M.); (J.K.); (R.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Amy B. Smoyer
- Department of Social Work, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Francesca Maviglia
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS at Yale, Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (F.M.); (J.K.); (R.H.)
| | - Janine Kara
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS at Yale, Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (F.M.); (J.K.); (R.H.)
| | | | - Fouad M. Fouad
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1100, Lebanon;
| | - Robert Heimer
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS at Yale, Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (F.M.); (J.K.); (R.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
O’Brien S, Jaramillo MM, Roberts B, Platt L. Determinants of health among people who use illicit drugs in the conflict-affected countries of Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar: a systematic review of epidemiological evidence. Confl Health 2022; 16:39. [PMID: 35799203 PMCID: PMC9264525 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar are the world's leading heroin and cocaine producers and have also experienced prolonged periods of armed conflict. The link between armed conflict and drug markets is well established but how conflict impacts on the health and social determinants of people who use drugs is less clear. The aim was to investigate health outcomes and associated factors among people who use illicit drugs in Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar. METHODS We conducted a systematic review searching Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Global Health databases using terms relating to Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar; illicit drug use (all modes of drug administration); health and influencing factors. Quality assessment was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale and papers were analysed narratively. RESULTS 35 studies were included in Afghanistan (n = 15), Colombia (n = 9) and Myanmar (n = 11). Health outcomes focused predominantly on HIV, Hepatitis C (HCV), Hepatitis B and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with one study looking at human rights violations (defined as maltreatment, abuse and gender inequality). Drug use was predominantly injection of heroin, often alongside use of amphetamines (Myanmar), cocaine and cocaine-based derivatives (Colombia). Only one study measured the effect of a period of conflict suggesting this was linked to increased reporting of symptoms of STIs and sharing of needles/syringes among people who inject drugs. Findings show high levels of external and internal migration, alongside low-income and unemployment across the samples. External displacement was linked to injecting drugs and reduced access to needle/syringe programmes in Afghanistan, while initiation into injecting abroad was associated with increased risk of HCV infection. Few studies focused on gender-based differences or recruited women. Living in more impoverished rural areas was associated with increased risk of HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS More research is needed to understand the impact of armed-conflict and drug production on the health of people who use drugs. The immediate scale-up of harm reduction services in these countries is imperative to minimize transmission of HIV/HCV and address harms associated with amphetamine use and other linked health and social care needs that people who use drugs may face.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally O’Brien
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XFaculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Margarita Marin Jaramillo
- grid.10689.360000 0001 0286 3748Observatorio de Restitución Y Regulación de los Derechos de Propiedad Agraria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Bayard Roberts
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XFaculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Scoppetta O, Avendaño Prieto BL, Cassiani Miranda C. Individual factors associated with the consumption of illicit substances: a review of reviews. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2022; 51:206-217. [PMID: 36085126 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcpeng.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to national studies, the use of illicit drugs is growing in Colombia. With this, the prevalence of substance use disorders and the set of health effects related to this practice also increases. Knowledge of the factors associated with the use of illicit drugs is necessary to guide the comprehensive care of the phenomenon. METHODS This is a systematic review of reviews on factors associated with the consumption of illicit drugs with seven databases and evaluation of the quality of the manuscripts according to AMSTAR. RESULTS Information was extracted from 38 reviews on individual factors associated with the use of illicit drugs. Demographic factors are associated with consumption through other factors. There is evidence of the association between mental and behavioural disorders and personality disorders. CONCLUSIONS The likelihood of consumption of illicit substances and disorders due to their use is affected by a set of personal factors including sociodemographic characteristics, mental health conditions, sexual behaviour, legal drug use, age of onset and risk perception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Scoppetta
- Psicólogo, Magister en Estudios de Población, Universidad Católica de Colombia, Avenida Caracas No. 46-22, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Scoppetta O, Avendaño BL, Cassiani C. Factors Associated with the Consumption of Illicit Drugs: a Review of Reviews. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00464-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
|
11
|
Pedro MOP, Nobuo Sakata Angelo M, Cheibub David Marin M, de Andrade AG, Torales J, Ventriglio A, Castaldelli-Maia JM. The role of global vulnerability for mental and substance use disorders. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:26-33. [PMID: 35584022 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2050189] [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
Social exclusion and poverty are associated with increased mental health issues. In addition, the current political and civil conflicts worldwide are also considered as leading factors to mental disorders and substance use disorders. The Compassion, Assertive action, Pragmatism and Evidence (CAPE) index comprises nine country-level measures and highlights the need for assistance in countries with a high degree of vulnerability. Several findings from previous studies reported a broad relationship between CAPE indices and increased levels of mental disorders and substance use. In this paper, we identified the prevalence of mental disorders and substance use disorders among those countries reporting higher (i.e., highest CAPE Index scores) as well as lower (i.e., highest Quality of Life Index scores) vulnerability. We extracted prevalence data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation global database in 2019. There was a lower prevalence of mental (12.5%) and substance use (1.7%) disorders in highly vulnerable countries than less vulnerable ones (15.1% and 3.5%, respectively). These findings suggest an urgent need for early detection of mental and substance use disorders in vulnerable countries: increasing mental health literacy among non-specialized health professionals in these regions may greatly improve the level of detection and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Arthur Guerra de Andrade
- Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Julio Torales
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medical Sciences, National University of Asunción, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - João Mauricio Castaldelli-Maia
- Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Priorities for addressing substance use disorder in humanitarian settings. Confl Health 2021; 15:71. [PMID: 34556142 PMCID: PMC8460183 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-021-00407-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Populations affected by humanitarian emergencies are vulnerable to substance (alcohol and other drug) use disorders, yet treatment and prevention services are scarce. Delivering substance use disorder treatment services in humanitarian settings is hampered by limited guidance around the preparation, implementation, and evaluation of substance use disorder treatment programs. This study aims to identify and prioritize key gaps and opportunities for addressing substance use disorder in humanitarian settings.
Methods UNODC convened a consultation meeting (n = 110) in coordination with UNHCR and WHO and administered an online survey (n = 34) to, thirteen program administrators and policymakers, eleven service providers, nine researchers, and one person with lived experience to explore best practices and challenges to addressing substance use disorder in diverse populations and contexts. Participants presented best practices for addressing substance use disorder, identified and ranked challenges and opportunities for improving the delivery of substance use disorder treatment interventions, and provided recommendations for guidelines that would facilitate the delivery of substance use disorder treatment services in humanitarian emergencies. Results Participants agreed on key principles for delivering substance use disorder treatment in humanitarian settings that centered on community engagement and building trust, integrated service delivery models, reducing stigma, considering culture and context in service delivery, and an ethical ‘do no harm’ approach. Specific gaps in knowledge that precluded the delivery of appropriate substance use disorder treatment include limited knowledge of the burden and patterns of substance use in humanitarian settings, the effectiveness of substance use disorder treatment services in humanitarian settings, and strategies for adapting and implementing interventions for a given population and humanitarian context. Participants emphasized the need to strengthen awareness and commitment related to the burden of substance use disorder treatment interventions among communities, practitioners, and policymakers in humanitarian settings. Conclusions Results from this consultation process highlight existing gaps in knowledge related to the epidemiology and treatment of substance use disorders in humanitarian emergencies. Epidemiological, intervention, and implementation research as well as operational guidance are needed to fill these gaps and improve access to substance use treatment services in humanitarian settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13031-021-00407-z.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fischer LC, Kölligan V, Wieland N, Klein M. Development and Evaluation of a Digital Health Intervention for Substance Use Reduction in Young Refugees With Problematic Use of Alcohol and/or Cannabis-Study Protocol for a Single-Armed Feasibility Trial. Front Public Health 2021; 9:557431. [PMID: 33869122 PMCID: PMC8044446 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.557431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Refugee populations are at substantial risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) and other mental health disorders. At the same time, refugee populations face numerous barriers to accessing mental health services. Digital interventions can address some of these issues, as emerging evidence indicates that digital interventions offer an effective, low-cost alternative with high accessibility and similar efficacy as standard SUD prevention programs. As an add-on to traditional services, they further present a viable approach to the lack of personnel available for foreign language communication in preventive and therapeutic settings. In the present study, we thus aim to develop and evaluate a digital health intervention (DHI) for the reduction of substance use for young refugees with problematic use of alcohol and/or cannabis. The intervention will be implemented in a smartphone app, translated into Arabic, English, Farsi, German, and Pashto, and is to be used stand-alone. It is based on methods from cognitive behavioral therapy, contains culturally adapted elements, provides practical information on how to deal safely with alcohol and cannabis, and motivates behavior change through increased self-reflection and behavioral, cognitive, and emotional skills-training in interactive exercises. Methods: We conduct a single-armed feasibility trial among 150 young refugees with problematic use of alcohol and/or cannabis. Participants will receive a digital screening and digital health intervention (DHI) for the reduction of problematic substance use, carried out over a 4-week time frame. The primary outcomes are the intervention's feasibility and the target population's acceptance of the intervention. The secondary outcome is a change in substance use post-intervention from baseline. Measurements are taken pre-intervention (baseline), post-intervention (after 4 weeks), and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. We expect the intervention to be feasible and accepted by the target group. Discussion: The present study will establish to what degree the digital intervention (the "BePrepared App") is feasible and accepted by the target group. The evaluation of an easily accessible, feasible, and accepted intervention may impact refugees' mental health and health-related consequences. It aims at overcoming barriers to preventive health care in the substance use field for underserved refugee populations as a tool within a larger set of urgently needed interventions. Trial Registration: DRKS00021095 at the "German Clinical Trials Register" (30.03.2020).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Charlotte Fischer
- German Institute on Addiction and Prevention Research (DISuP), Catholic University of Applied Sciences of North Rhine–Westphalia, Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Waller SG. Do Health Programs Contribute to Keeping the Peace? A Scientific Analysis. Mil Med 2021; 186:1227-1232. [PMID: 33742680 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The role of health problems and programs to address problems in keeping the peace has not been scientifically analyzed. We sought to mitigate this gap in knowledge. METHODS We examined hundreds of conflicts in a robust international database (NAVCO 2.0) for the presence of health programs by conflict parties and were unable to demonstrate a significant statistical correlation between the presence of a health program and peace. Using this analysis and a comprehensive international database of health conditions (the Global Burden of Disease), we obtained Institutional Review Board approval and undertook a matched case-control analysis. We identified 14 countries with new-onset conflict as our cases and 52 similar countries without conflict during the same year as our controls. We calculated the association between conflict status and the prevalence of 254 different health conditions among the case and control nations. RESULTS None of the 254 health conditions had changes in prevalence that correlated with the conflict status of that nation. None of those common health conditions is therefore a predictive "leading indicator" of conflict in this study. CONCLUSIONS Without such an association or causal link, the role of health programs in peacekeeping and "stability operations" remains ambiguous. Negative findings do not mean that there is no connection between health programs and peace, and further study should be done. Our results have implications for the value of global health engagement missions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen G Waller
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Scoppetta O, Avendaño Prieto BL, Cassiani Miranda C. Individual Factors Associated with the Consumption of Illicit Substances: a Review of Reviews. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2020; 51:S0034-7450(20)30030-5. [PMID: 33735052 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2020.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to national studies, the use of illicit drugs is growing in Colombia. With this, the prevalence of substance use disorders and the set of health effects related to this practice also increases. Knowledge of the factors associated with the use of illicit drugs is necessary to guide the comprehensive care of the phenomenon. METHODS This is a systematic review of reviews on factors associated with the consumption of illicit drugs with seven databases and evaluation of the quality of the manuscripts according to AMSTAR. RESULTS Information was extracted from 38 reviews on individual factors associated with the use of illicit drugs. Demographic factors are associated with consumption through other factors. There is evidence of the association between mental and behavioural disorders and personality disorders. CONCLUSIONS The likelihood of consumption of illicit substances and disorders due to their use is affected by a set of personal factors including sociodemographic characteristics, mental health conditions, sexual behaviour, legal drug use, age of onset and risk perception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Scoppetta
- Psicólogo. Magister en Estudios de Población. Universidad Católica de Colombia. Avenida Caracas No. 46-22, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
An overview of systematic reviews found suboptimal reporting and methodological limitations of mediation studies investigating causal mechanisms. J Clin Epidemiol 2019; 111:60-68.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
17
|
Greene MC, Kane JC, Khoshnood K, Ventevogel P, Tol WA. Challenges and opportunities for implementation of substance misuse interventions in conflict-affected populations. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:58. [PMID: 30486840 PMCID: PMC6263054 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0267-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and other drug misuse are significant but neglected public health issues in conflict-affected populations. In this article, we review the literature on the challenges and strategies for implementing substance misuse treatment and prevention services in conflict and post-conflict settings in low- and middle-income countries. We identified nine studies describing interventions in conflict-affected populations residing in Afghanistan, Croatia, India, Kenya, Kosovo, Pakistan, and Thailand. Six of these nine studies focused on refugee populations. Reports revealed challenges to intervention implementation, as well as promising practices and recommendations for future implementation that we characterized as existing in the inner and outer contexts of an implementing organization. Challenges existing in the outer context included low political prioritization, lack of coordination and integration, and limited advocacy for access to substance misuse services. Challenges within the inner context related to competing priorities and a shortage of providers. Resource limitations existed in both the inner and outer contexts. Stigma was a challenge that threatened implementation and utilization of substance use services in situations when substance use interventions were not congruent with the roles, structure, values, and authority of the system or implementing organization. Future research should focus on developing, applying, and evaluating strategies for overcoming these challenges in order to make progress toward meeting the need for substance misuse services in conflict-affected populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Claire Greene
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Rm. 888, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Jeremy C. Kane
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Rm. 888, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Kaveh Khoshnood
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health Section, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Wietse A. Tol
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Rm. 888, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
- Peter C. Alderman Foundation, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lagos-Gallego M, Gutierrez-Segura JC, Lagos-Grisales GJ, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Post-traumatic stress disorder in internally displaced people of Colombia: An ecological study. Travel Med Infect Dis 2017; 16:41-45. [PMID: 28242350 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been described as one of the most frequently reported mental condition among refugees and internally displaced populations (IDPs). Despite this, few has been reported about it in Latin America, even in Colombia, the country with the highest number of IDPs in the in the world. METHOD This ecological study assessed incidence and differences of PTSD in general population and IDPs in Colombia and its departments (32) during 2009-2012. Epidemiological data was collected from the National Health Records System (RIPS), retrieving the ICD-10 code F43.1 in both populations. We estimated PTSD incidence rates on both populations (cases/100,000 pop), using reference population of the IDPs (SISDHES and the general population was taken from the (DANE). Incidence rates ratios were calculated comparing both populations. RESULTS In general population, 6619 cases of PTSD occurred (14.5 cases/100,000 pop, 95%CI 14.0-15.0) while 177 among IDPs (73.8 cases/100,000 pop, 95%CI 63.0-85.0). PTSD was 5.1 times higher among IDPs than in general population. Ranging from 1.6 (Tolima) to 15.8 (Quindío) (median: 4.4). In departments with higher incidence, also it was in IDPs (r2 = 0.4899; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION This study evidenced a significantly higher PTSD incidence among IDPs, when compared with general population in the same territories. This has relevant implications for screening, diagnosis and management of PTSD among IDPs, especially in high incidence areas. More studies are required to improve the understanding of this condition among vulnerable populations, as well to provide better medical and psychological interventions and for the development of public policies in countries, such as Colombia, with IDPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Lagos-Gallego
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; Research Group Public Health and Infection, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
| | - Julio César Gutierrez-Segura
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; Research Group Public Health and Infection, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
| | - Guillermo J Lagos-Grisales
- Research Group Public Health and Infection, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
| | - Alfonso J Rodriguez-Morales
- Research Group Public Health and Infection, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira (UTP), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; Committee on Travel Medicine, Asociación Panamericana de Infectología, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; Comission on Scientific Publications, Latin American Society for Travel Medicine (SLAMVI), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), Study Group for Infections in Travellers and Migrants (ESGITM), Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Van Hout MC, Hearne E, Wells J. Economic and conflict based rapid mass population movement into Europe: The security and public health implications for future EU drugs policy. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2016; 38:13-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
20
|
Sitasuwan P, Melendez C, Marinova M, Mastrianni KR, Darragh A, Ryan E, Lee LA. Degradation of Opioids and Opiates During Acid Hydrolysis Leads to Reduced Recovery Compared to Enzymatic Hydrolysis. J Anal Toxicol 2016; 40:601-607. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkw085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
|
21
|
Massad SG, Shaheen M, Karam R, Brown R, Glick P, Linnemay S, Khammash U. Substance use among Palestinian youth in the West Bank, Palestine: a qualitative investigation. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:800. [PMID: 27530549 PMCID: PMC4988009 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3472-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Youth health risk behaviors, including substance use (psychoactive substances including alcohol and illicit drugs), have been the subject of relatively limited study to date in Middle Eastern countries. This study provides insights into the perceived prevalence and patterns of alcohol and drug use among Palestinian youth. Methods The study was based on ten focus groups and 17 individual interviews with youth aged 16–24 years (n = 83), collected as part of the formative phase of a cross-sectional, population representative study of risk taking behaviors among Palestinian youth in the West Bank in 2012. Qualitative analysis was used to code detailed notes of focus groups and interviews. Results Most participants reported that substance use exists, even in socially conservative communities. Almost all participants agreed that alcohol consumption is common and that alcohol is easily available. The top alcoholic drinks referred to by the study participants were vodka, whisky, beer, and wine. Most participants claimed that they drink alcohol to cope with stress, for fun, out of curiosity, to challenge society, and due to the influence of the media. Participants were familiar with illicit drugs and knew of youth who engaged in drug use: marijuana, cocaine, and heroin were mentioned most frequently. Study participants believed that youth use drugs as a result of stress, the Israeli occupation, inadequate parental control, lack of awareness, unhappiness, curiosity, and for entertainment. Many participants were unaware of any local institutions to support youth with substance use problems. Others expressed their distrust of any such institution as they assumed them to be inefficient, profit-driven, and posing the risk of potential breaches of confidentiality. Conclusions Although this study uses a purposive sample, the results suggest that substance use exists among Palestinian youth. Risk behaviors are a concern given inadequate youth-friendly counseling services and the strong cultural constraints on open discussion or education about the impact of high risk behaviors. These barriers to treatment and counseling can exacerbate the health and social consequences of alcohol abuse and illicit drug use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salwa G Massad
- Palestinian National Institute of Public Health, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine. .,Juzoor for Health and Social Development, Al-Arkan St, Al-Bireh, West Bank, Palestine.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Umaiyeh Khammash
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Jerusalem, Palestine.,Juzoor for Health and Social Development, Al-Arkan St, Al-Bireh, West Bank, Palestine
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yang HS, Wu AHB, Lynch KL. Development and Validation of a Novel LC-MS/MS Opioid Confirmation Assay: Evaluation of β-glucuronidase Enzymes and Sample Cleanup Methods. J Anal Toxicol 2016; 40:323-9. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkw026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
|
23
|
Michalopoulos LM, Aifah A, El-Bassel N. A Systematic Review of HIV Risk Behaviors and Trauma Among Forced and Unforced Migrant Populations from Low and Middle-Income Countries: State of the Literature and Future Directions. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:243-61. [PMID: 25662963 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1014-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current systematic review is to examine the relationship between trauma and HIV risk behaviors among both forced and unforced migrant populations from low and middle income countries (LMIC). We conducted a review of studies published from 1995 to 2014. Data were extracted related to (1) the relationship between trauma and HIV risk behaviors, (2) methodological approach, (3) assessment methods, and (4) differences noted between forced and unforced migrants. A total of 340 records were retrieved with 24 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Our review demonstrated an overall relationship between trauma and HIV risk behaviors among migrant populations in LMIC, specifically with sexual violence and sexual risk behavior. However, findings from 10 studies were not in full support of the relationship. Findings from the review suggest that additional research using more rigorous methods is critically needed to understand the nature of the relationship experienced by this key-affected population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Murphy Michalopoulos
- Social Intervention Group, Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, Room 804, Mail Code 4600, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| | - Angela Aifah
- Social Intervention Group, Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, Room 804, Mail Code 4600, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Nabila El-Bassel
- Social Intervention Group, Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, Room 804, Mail Code 4600, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Arslan MM, Zeren C, Çelikel A, Ortanca I, Demirkiran S. Increased drug seizures in Hatay, Turkey related to civil war in Syria. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2014; 26:116-8. [PMID: 24947994 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2014.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Mustafa Arslan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Cem Zeren
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey.
| | - Adnan Çelikel
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim Ortanca
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Sumeyra Demirkiran
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|