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Nakhaee N, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, Malekshahi K, Moaddeb KA, Vahidzadeh A, Iranpour A. The effectiveness of court-mandated compulsory treatment in promoting abstinence among people with substance use disorders in Iran. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 124:104325. [PMID: 38232440 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104325] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Iran, people living with substance use disorders who engage in public drug use may be subjected to court-mandated treatment in compulsory drug detention and rehabilitation centers (CDDRC). This study aims to assess residential CDDRC's effectiveness in promoting sustained abstinence among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kerman, Iran. METHODS Between October 1, 2021, and September 30, 2022, 1,083 adult male PWUD with a diagnosis of substance use disorders and a history of engagement in public drug use were admitted to the CDDRC in Kerman. They were followed-up for 12 months after discharge. The relationship between baseline variables and abstinence, assessed using rapid urine tests, was examined using crude logistic regression models. RESULTS Most PWUD were 30 or older (n = 876, 80.9 %) and had a history of previous CDDRC admission (n = 638, 58.9 %). At the end of the 12-month follow-up, only 2.6 % (95 % confidence intervals: 1.7-3.7) were abstinent. Individuals with limited education (Odds ratio [OR] = 3.43; 1.50-7.95) and those with a prior history of admission to the CDDRC (OR = 3.73; 1.55-9.89) had increased odds of relapse. CONCLUSIONS The effectiveness of CDDRC in promoting abstinence among the participants was minimal. This highlights the necessity of reassessing support and investment in these interventions and considering more evidence-informed alternative approaches in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouzar Nakhaee
- Neuroscience Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | | | | | - Abedin Iranpour
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Omidvar Tehrani S, Rezaei Ardani A, Akhlaghi S, Shayesteh Zarrin M, Talaei A. Long-term detoxification of opioid use disorder with opium tincture assisted treatment. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1273587. [PMID: 38144477 PMCID: PMC10748504 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1273587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Retention in treatment, craving, and relapse rate are important indicators of the success rate in addiction maintenance therapy as they evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. However, the rate of continuation in the treatment process and the rate of craving in patients with opioid use disorder undergoing maintenance treatment with opium tincture have not been studied. The present study aimed to investigate the rate of relapse, craving, and psychiatric disorders in patients with opioid use disorder undergoing treatment of gradual detoxification with opium tincture. Methods Ninety patients with opioid use disorder who underwent treatment with the gradual detoxification method using opium tincture in the form of Congress 60 for 11 months were enrolled in the study. The level of craving based on the Desire for Drug Questionnaire (DDQ) and patients' self-report of drug use, the level of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality of patients were evaluated using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), respectively. Also, suicidal thoughts were assessed by Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation and quality of life by the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). Results The study found that the treatment resulted in a relapse rate of 16.7% for relapse. We also found that all sub-scales of the desire for drug questionnaire (DDQ), depression, and anxiety were significantly lower at the end of the study compared to its beginning. Additionally, quality of life and sleep significantly increased at the end of the study. All areas of craving, anxiety, and depression significantly decreased in all follow-up sessions that took place 1, 5, and 11 months after the start of treatment. Moreover, sleep disorders were improved considerably at the end of the treatment. Conclusion The current study presented a low relapse rate of Iranian patients with opioid use disorder under structured treatment of gradual detoxification with opium tincture in a one-year follow-up period. Opium tincture under the Congress 60 protocol may help to control carving, decrease psychological disorders, improve quality of life, and consequently, lower relapse rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Omidvar Tehrani
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Rezaei Ardani
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeed Akhlaghi
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Masood Shayesteh Zarrin
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Talaei
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Khezri M, Goldmann E, Tavakoli F, Karamouzian M, Shokoohi M, Mehmandoost S, Ghalekhani N, Haghdoost AA, Des Jarlais D, Mirzazadeh A, Sharifi H. Awareness and willingness to use HIV self-testing among people who inject drugs in Iran. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:145. [PMID: 37805505 PMCID: PMC10560425 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00881-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran have not undergone recent HIV testing. While PWID face barriers when seeking HIV testing at health facilities, HIV self-testing (HIVST) could be a promising approach to improve HIV testing uptake. We examined the awareness and willingness to use HIVST among PWID in Iran. We also identified participants' characteristics associated with a higher willingness to use HIVST. METHODS PWID were recruited in 11 cities using a respondent-driven sampling method. Willingness to use HIVST was defined as a binary variable (very low/low willingness vs. high/very high willingness). We performed multivariable modified Poisson regression to examine associated factors and report adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Of 2,252 PWID, 362 (16.2%; 95% CI 14.7, 17.8) had ever heard of HIVST; however, 1,658 (73.6%; 95% CI 71.7, 75.4) reported high/very high willingness to use HIVST. Willingness to use HIVST was higher among PWID who reported having a high/moderate HIV risk perception (aPR 1.22; 95% CI 1.09, 1.37), ever experiencing homelessness (aPR 1.15; 95% CI 1.03, 1.28), > 10 years of injecting history (aPR 1.16; 95% CI 1.00, 1.34), and high injection frequency in the last three months (aPR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05, 1.32). CONCLUSION Most PWID in Iran, particularly those experiencing homelessness, have a longer injecting history, engage in more frequent injection practices, and possess a heightened perception of HIV risk would be willing to adopt HIVST. Enhancing HIVST awareness through increased access to HIVST and health education programs are needed. Additionally, conducting implementation science studies to effectively design and run HIVST programs in Iran can also increase PWID's access to HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Emily Goldmann
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Tavakoli F, Mcfarland W, Ghalekhani N, Khezri M, Haghdoost AA, Gouya MM, Mahboobi M, Hosseionpour AM, Komasi A, Ghorbanian M, Nasiri Moghadam N, Taghipour M, Sharifi H. Double counting of clients using services in Iran: implications for assessing the reach of harm reduction programs. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:111. [PMID: 37587473 PMCID: PMC10429072 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00851-5] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people with high-risk sexual or injection behaviors use harm reduction services with different identities and are therefore counted more than once in client databases. This practice results in inaccurate statistics on the number of clients served and the effective reach of these services. This study aimed to determine the levels of double counting of clients of harm reduction services, including needle and syringe programs, condom distribution, HIV testing and counseling, and methadone maintenance in five cities in Iran. METHODS Between September and March 2020, our study included 1630 clients, 115 staff of harm reduction centers, and 30 experts in the field of harm reduction in five cities in Iran. Clients of harm reduction services were asked about using harm reduction services multiple times at the same center or at different centers in the last year using different identities. Estimates of double counting derived from client responses were validated by panels of center staff and experts in harm reduction. RESULTS Synthesizing data from clients, staff, and experts, the final estimates of double counting of clients using harm reduction services were: HIV testing 10% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0-15), needle and syringe programs 17% (95% CI 8.5-20), condom distribution programs 13% (95% CI 3-19), HIV/STI counseling 10% (95% CI 0-16), and methadone maintenance 7% (95% CI 2-10). CONCLUSION Double counting of clients in harm reduction services in Iran is substantial. Data on clients reach by harm reduction services need to be corrected for double counting to improve program planning, client population size estimation, and efficient resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Willi Mcfarland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Gouya
- Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Mahboobi
- Iranian Center for Communicable Diseases Control, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Komasi
- Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Nasim Nasiri Moghadam
- Center for HIV/STI Control and Prevention, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Boumparis N, Noroozi A, Naghizadeh E, Meyer A, Wenger A, Rahimi-Movaghar A, Schaub MP. Blended smartphone intervention for patients in opioid maintenance treatment in Iran: protocol for a randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:518. [PMID: 37464337 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pattern of substance use in Iran is characterized by a high prevalence of opioid use and opioid use disorder (OUD). Although opioid maintenance therapy (OMT) has been introduced in Iran, approximately 50% of people with opioid use disorder remain unreached. Moreover, psychosocial treatment of OUD and common mental health symptoms during OMT is limited. Digital interventions have been shown to improve psychological distress, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. In addition, providing psychoeducation and risk reduction counseling to prevent communicable diseases like HIV and infectious hepatitis is common via the Internet. However, despite these promising advances, no smartphone intervention in OMT has been investigated for the treatment of OUD and common comorbid mental health symptoms. OBJECTIVE We examine the effectiveness of adding a blended smartphone intervention based on community reinforcement approach, motivational interviewing- and cognitive behavioral therapy compared to OMT as usual that aims to improve OMT outcomes and addresses common mental health symptoms in OMT patients in Iran. METHOD Adults with opioid dependence entering 8 treatment centers in Tehran, Iran will be randomly assigned to receive either OMT plus a smartphone intervention or OMT as usual. The primary outcomes will be the percentage of negative urine tests for illicit, non-prescribed use of opioids (opium, heroin, tramadol) and treatment retention. Secondary outcomes will include the longest period of abstinence from the illicit, non-prescribed use of opioids (opium, heroin, and tramadol) confirmed by urine samples, changes in communicable disease risk-taking behaviors, changes in stress and common mental health symptoms, and client satisfaction. Data analysis will follow the intention-to-treat principle and employ (generalized) linear mixed models. DISCUSSION This study will provide substantial knowledge for designing effective blended interventions for OUD. Moreover, it will investigate if treatment retention and OMT-related outcomes and common mental health symptoms can be improved by adding a smartphone intervention to OMT. TRIAL REGISTRATION https://en.irct.ir/trial/53578 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Boumparis
- Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction, University of Zurich, Konradstrasse 32, 8005, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eisa Naghizadeh
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Andreas Meyer
- Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction, University of Zurich, Konradstrasse 32, 8005, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Wenger
- Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction, University of Zurich, Konradstrasse 32, 8005, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael P Schaub
- Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction, University of Zurich, Konradstrasse 32, 8005, Zurich, Switzerland
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Kim JJ, Nikoo M, Nikoo N, Javidanbardan S, Kazemi A, Choi F, Gholami A, Lafooraki NY, Vogel M, Rezazadeh-Azar P, Meyer M, Cabanis M, Jang K, Aknondzadeh S, Krausz M. Quality of life of patients treated with opium tincture or methadone: A randomized controlled trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 249:110874. [PMID: 37402335 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110874] [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] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Quality of life (QoL) is an increasingly recognized patient-centered treatment outcome in individuals with opioid use disorder. There is a gap in literature on the impact of opium tincture (OT) on patients' QoL compared to standard treatment options such as methadone. This study aimed to compare the QoL of participants with opioid use disorder receiving OAT using OT or methadone and identify the factors associated with their QoL during treatment. METHODS The opium trial was a multicenter non-inferiority randomized clinical trial in four private OAT outpatient clinics in Iran. The study assigned patients to either OT (10 mg/ml) or methadone sirup (5 mg/ml) for a follow-up of 85 days. QoL was assessed using the brief version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument (WHOQOL- BREF). RESULTS A total of 83 participants, 35 (42.2%) in the OT arm and 48 (57.8%) in the methadone arm, completed the WHOQOL-BREF in full and were included in the primary analysis. The mean score of patients' QoL showed improvement compared to baseline, but differences were not statistically significant between OT and methadone arms (p = 0.786). Improvements were mainly observed within the first 30 days of receiving treatment. Being married and lower psychological distress were associated with an improved QoL. Within the social relationships domain, male gender showed significantly higher QoL compared to females. CONCLUSION OT shows promise as an OAT medication, comparable to methadone in improving patients' QoL. There is a need to incorporate psychosocial interventions to further sustain and improve the QoL in this population. Identifying other social determinants of health which affect QoL and the cultural adaptation of assessments for individuals from various ethnocultural backgrounds are critical areas of inquiry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane J Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada.
| | - Mohammadali Nikoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Nooshin Nikoo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Alireza Kazemi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Fiona Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Ali Gholami
- Kian Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Neda Y Lafooraki
- Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Marc Vogel
- Division of Substance Use Disorders, University of Basel Psychiatric Clinics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pouya Rezazadeh-Azar
- Complex Pain and Addiction Services, Vancouver General Hospital & Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maximilian Meyer
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maurice Cabanis
- Center for Mental Health, Clinic for Addiction Medicine and Addictive Behavior, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, 70374, Germany
| | - Kerry Jang
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Shahin Aknondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Michael Krausz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 2A1, Canada
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Perkins-McVey M. Were the scale of excitability a circle: Tracing the roots of the disease theory of alcoholism through Brunonian stimulus dependence. STUDIES IN HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE 2023; 99:46-55. [PMID: 37023665 DOI: 10.1016/j.shpsa.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The disease theory of alcoholism, and by extension, of addiction, forms the theoretical basis of an expansive scientific industry, one which musters tremendous resources in the service of research, rehab clinics, and government programs. Revisiting the early work on the disease theory of alcoholism, this paper analyzes the apperance of the disease theory of alcoholism in the eighteenth/nineteenth century works of Rush, Trotter, and Brühl-Cramer as emergent of a theoretical tension within the Brunonian system of medicine, that of stimulus dependence. Establishing both the shared Brunonianism of these figures and the concept of stimulus dependence, I argue it is here that one finds the nascent formulation of the modern dependence model of addiction, pushing out alternative models, such as Hufeland's toxin theory.
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Nafeh F, Werb D, Karamouzian M. The ups and downs of harm reduction in Afghanistan. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2023; 13:100186. [PMID: 37383551 PMCID: PMC10306026 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Frishta Nafeh
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dan Werb
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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9
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Radfar N, Radfar SR, Mohammadi F, Azimi A, Amirkafi A, Tehrani-Banihashemi A. Retention rate in methadone maintenance treatment and factors associated among referred patients from the compulsory residential centers compared to voluntary patients. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1139307. [PMID: 37304442 PMCID: PMC10248436 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1139307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Compulsory treatment has decades of history in Iran; both before and after the Islamic Revolution, but there are many debates regarding its efficacy and effectiveness. Retention Rate is one of the best indices to estimate the efficacy of treatment. This study will compare Retention Rate among people referred from compulsory treatment centers and volunteer participants. Methods This was a retrospective (historical) cohort study that has been conducted among people who were taking methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). The study sample was selected from the MMT centers that admit both referral patients from compulsory centers and voluntary patients. All newly admitted patients from March 2017 to March 2018 were enrolled and followed up until March 2019. Results A total of 105 participants were recruited for the study. All were males with a mean age of 36.6 ± 7.9 years. Fifty-six percent of individuals were referred from compulsory residential centers. The total one-year retention rate of participants in this study was 15.84%. The one-year retention rate for the patients referred from compulsory residential centers and the non-referred patients was 12.28 and 20.45%, respectively (value of p = 0.128). Among the other studied factors, only marital status was significantly associated with MMT retention (p = 0.023). Conclusion Although the average treatment adherence time for non-referred patients was about 60 days higher than those referred from compulsory residential centers, this study found no significant differences in retention days and a one-year retention rate. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups are needed to explore the efficacy of compulsory treatment methods in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niayesh Radfar
- Department of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Seyed Ramin Radfar
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Integrated Substance Abuse Programs Department, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Faezeh Mohammadi
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Azimi
- Department of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Amirkafi
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Tehrani-Banihashemi
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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10
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SeyedAlinaghi S, Farhoudi B, Shahmohamadi E, Rasoolinejad M, Hasannezhad M, Rashidi MR, Dadras O, Moradi A, Parmoon Z, Ebrahimi H, Asadollahi-Amin A. Prevalence of and risk factors for HCV among incarcerated people at Great Tehran Prison: a cross-sectional study. Int J Prison Health 2023; 19:536-544. [PMID: 36757302 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-09-2022-0059] [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] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatitis C is one of the major health issues in both developed and developing countries. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is more common in prisoners than in the general population. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of HCV and its associated risk factors in Iranian male prisoners in Tehran. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH In this cross-sectional study, the authors investigated the frequency and risk factors of hepatitis C infection among male prisoners in the Great Tehran Prison. Information on risk factors including the length of imprisonment, previous history of imprisonment, history of drug injection, history of tattooing, history of piercing, history of high-risk sex and family history of hepatitis C were extracted from patients' records. To evaluate HCV status, blood samples were collected and tested. FINDINGS In this study, 179 participants were included. Nine participants (5.0%, 95% CI, 2.3-9.3) were positive for hepatitis C. HCV infection was not significantly associated with age, marital status, education, previous history of imprisonment, length of imprisonment, piercing and high-risk sex; however, there was a significant association between a history of tattooing and a history of injecting drug use and Hepatitis C. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The prevalence of hepatitis C among male prisoners in Great Tehran Prison was 5% in this study, similar to recent studies on prisoners in Tehran. A history of drug injections as well as tattooing were the most important risk factors for hepatitis C in male prisoners.
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Affiliation(s)
- SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Farhoudi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Amir-al-Momenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Shahmohamadi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Rasoolinejad
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maliheh Hasannezhad
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rasool Rashidi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Dadras
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ali Moradi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohal Parmoon
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooman Ebrahimi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Asadollahi-Amin
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Nikoo M, Kianpoor K, Nikoo N, Javidanbardan S, Kazemi A, Choi F, Vogel M, Gholami A, Tavakoli S, Wong JSH, Moazen-Zadeh E, Givaki R, Jazani M, Mohammadian F, Moghaddam NM, Schütz C, Jang K, Akhondzadeh S, Krausz M. Opium tincture versus methadone for opioid agonist treatment: a randomized controlled trial. Addiction 2023; 118:284-294. [PMID: 35971297 DOI: 10.1111/add.16030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM To test if opium tincture (OT) was non-inferior to methadone in retaining participants in opioid agonist treatment (OAT). DESIGN A Phase III, multi-centre, parallel-group, non-inferiority, double-blind randomized controlled trial with an allocation ratio of 1:1. Participants were provided treatment and followed for a period of 85 days. SETTING Four OAT clinics in Iran. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred and four participants with opioid use disorder [mean age (standard deviation) = 37.4 (9.3); female 11.3%] recruited between July 2017 and January 2018. INTERVENTIONS Participants were assigned to either OT (102) or methadone (102) using a patient-centred flexible dosing strategy. MEASUREMENTS Treatment retention over 85 days was the primary outcome. Self-reported opioid use outside treatment and occurrence of adverse events (AEs) were the secondary outcomes. FINDINGS Remaining in treatment at the end of the follow-up were 68.6% in the methadone arm and 59.8% in the OT arm. The relative retention rate of methadone to OT was 1.15 (0.97, 1.36) in both intent-to-treat and per-protocol analyses; non-inferiority was not supported statistically, as the upper bound of the confidence interval exceeded our pre-specified non-inferiority margin (1.25). Opioid use outside treatment was reported by 30.3% of OT (n = 152) and 49.4% of methadone (n = 168) patients, a difference in proportions of -19%: 90% confidence interval (-28%, -10%). The total count of AEs in the OT arm (22 among nine individuals) was significantly higher (P = 0.04) than that in the methadone arm (three among two individuals). Nausea was the most common side effect. CONCLUSION While this study could not conclude the non-inferiority of opium tincture (OT) to methadone for retaining patients in opioid agonist treatment, OT retained 60% of participants to end of follow-up (85 days) and was superior to methadone in reducing self-reported opioid use outside treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadali Nikoo
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kiana Kianpoor
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nooshin Nikoo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Alireza Kazemi
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fiona Choi
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Vogel
- Division of Substance Use Disorders, Psychiatric Services of Thurgovia, Münsterlingen, Switzerland.,Division of Substance Use Disorders, University of Basel Psychiatric Clinics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ali Gholami
- Kian Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic, Private Practice, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Saeed Tavakoli
- Rooz-e-No, Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic (Private Practice), Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - James S H Wong
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Complex Pain and Addiction Consult Service, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ehsan Moazen-Zadeh
- Addiction Institute of Mount Sinai, Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Reza Givaki
- Psychosomatic Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Majid Jazani
- Sales, Marketing, Export and Medical Department, Darou Pakhsh Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadian
- Sales, Marketing, Export and Medical Department, Darou Pakhsh Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nader Markazi Moghaddam
- Department of Health Management and Economics, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christian Schütz
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kerry Jang
- Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Michael Krausz
- Institute of Mental Health, Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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12
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Khezri M, Mirzazadeh A, Shokoohi M, Sharafi H, Ghalekhani N, Tavakoli F, Mehmandoost S, Mousavian G, Imani M, Kakavand-Ghalehnoei R, Komasi A, Gouya MM, Haghdoost AA, McFarland W, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H. Hepatitis C virus prevalence, determinants, and cascade of care among people who inject drugs in Iran. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 243:109751. [PMID: 36621200 PMCID: PMC10440186 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109751] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) continue to experience the highest burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV). We aimed to characterize HCV antibody prevalence, determinants of infection, and the cascade of engagement in HCV care among PWID in Iran. METHODS Participants were recruited in 11 cities of Iran using respondent-driven sampling. PWID underwent a structured interview capturing measures on socio-demographics, behaviors, and the HCV cascade of care. HCV and HIV were tested using antibody rapid tests. Multivariable logistic regression models identified characteristics associated with HCV seropositivity. RESULTS HCV antibody prevalence was 26.0% among 2684 PWID enrolled. Of 699 participants who were HCV antibody positive, 88 (12.6%) were aware of past infections. HCV antibody prevalence was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.09; 95% CI 1.18, 3.71), lower education (aOR 1.31; 95% CI 1.02, 1.69), >10 years of injecting (aOR 6.03; 95% CI 4.10, 8.85), methamphetamine injection (aOR 1.46; 95% CI 1.07, 1.99), daily injection drug use (aOR 1.26; 95% CI 1.01, 1.58), needle/syringe sharing (aOR 2.04; 95% CI 1.24, 3.34), recent incarceration (aOR 1.74; 95% CI 1.30, 2.32), and HIV seropositivity (aOR 7.93; 95% CI 4.12, 15.24). Additionally, 12.0% had ever tested for HCV, 4.0% had previously tested reactive for HCV antibody, and 3.7% had received an HCV diagnosis. Of diagnosed cases, 44.4% were linked to care, 15.2% initiated treatment, and 3.0% achieved sustained virologic response. CONCLUSION Our data show a high prevalence of HCV antibody and low engagement in HCV care, underscoring an unmet need for HCV prevention, screening, and treatment among PWID in Iran. HCV prevention and treatment programs tailored for PWID are needed to enhance harm reduction efforts and access to HCV care in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mousa Imani
- Middle East Liver Diseases (MELD) Center, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Komasi
- Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Gouya
- Center for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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13
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Amini K, Long T, Jafari Varjoshani N, Rabie Siahkali S. A comparison of risk factors for relapse in opiate-related and stimulant-related substance use disorders: A cross-sectional multicenter study. J Nurs Scholarsh 2023; 55:566-576. [PMID: 36596703 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12872] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recognizing the specific factors in relapse disorders related to each substance can help improve treatment methods and adopt more effective preventive strategies. This study aimed to compare the situational factors associated with relapse in opiate-related disorders with stimulant-related disorders (SRDs) of those referred to substance misuse treatment centers. DESIGN This study was a cross-section type. METHODS The study participants were 150 clients with SRDs and 150 with opiate-related disorders. Samples were selected using two stages random sampling method. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Inventory of Drug-Taking Situations (IDTS). RESULTS The mean score of IDTS in the two groups was significantly different (X̄1 = 45.93 ± 11.12 vs. X̄2 = 48.34 ± 15.07; t = 3.32, p < 0.01). The mean scores of 'unpleasant emotions,' 'physical discomfort,' 'conflict with others,' and 'social pressure to use and urge/temptations' subscales were significantly higher in the stimulant group than in the opiate group (p < 0.05). However, the mean of the testing' personal control' subscale was higher in the opiate group than in the stimulant group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study reveals that despite some similarities, relapse-related situational factors in opiates and stimulants differ. Some situational factors, such as social pressure and coping with unpleasant emotions, play a more critical role in relapse to both stimulant and opiate groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kourosh Amini
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | | | - Nasrin Jafari Varjoshani
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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14
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Gheibi Z, Fararouei M, Afrashteh S, Akbari M, Afsar Kazerooni P, Shokoohi M. Pattern of contributing behaviors and their determinants among people living with HIV in Iran: A 30-year nationwide study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1038489. [PMID: 36908430 PMCID: PMC9998994 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1038489] [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: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A major shift in the routes of HIV transmission seams to be taking place in Iran. Our study aimed to investigate the 30-year trend of major HIV related behaviors in Iran. Methods The national HIV/AIDS registry database (from September 1986 to July 2016 with data on 32,168 people newly diagnosed with HIV) was used to study the 30 years trend and demographic determinants of major HIV related behaviors. Results The highest rate of drug injection (DI) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) was reported during 1996 to 1999 (p-for trend < 0.001) while the highest rate of sexual activity by minorities or hard to reach groups was during 2004 to 2011 (p-for trend < 0.001). Among males, drug injection was directly associated with being single (ORsingle/married = 1.34), being unemployed (ORunemployed/employed = 1.94) and having lower level of education (OR<highschool/≥highschool = 2.21). Regarding females, drug injection was associated with being housewife (ORhousewife/employed = 1.35) and lower level of education (OR<highschool/≥highschool = 1.85). In females, condomless sexual contact was more common among those younger (OR20-29/<20 = 6.15), and married (ORmarried/single = 7.76). However, among males those being single (ORmarried/single = 0.82), being more educated (OR≥highschool/<highschool = 1.24), and being unemployed (ORunemployed/employed = 1.53) reported more sexual activity by minoritised or hard to reach groups. Discussion The pattern of major HIV related behaviors among Iranian males and females have been rapidly changing and people living with HIV (PLHIV) are being diagnosed at a younger age. Health education to younger individuals is an essential HIV controlling strategy among Iranian population. Implementation of surveys in hidden and hard-to-reach populations is also recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Gheibi
- Department of Epidemiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Fararouei
- Department of Epidemiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sima Afrashteh
- Clinical Research Development Center, The Persian Gulf Martyrs Hospital, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Akbari
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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15
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Mehmandoost S, Sharifi H, Shokoohi M, Khezri M, Mirzazadeh A, Shahesmaeili A, Gahlekhani N, Kamali K, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M. Sexualized Substance Use among Female Sex Workers in Iran: Findings from a Nationwide Survey. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 58:298-305. [PMID: 36576274 PMCID: PMC10881188 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2161824] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) are at higher risk of HIV due to high-risk sexual and drug use related behaviors. This study characterized sexualized substance use among FSWs in Iran. Methods: In 2015, 1,337 FSWs were recruited from centers for vulnerable women and through outreach efforts in 13 major cities in Iran. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews from consenting FSWs on a range of socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics. The primary outcome of interest was sexualized substance use, defined as reporting alcohol or drug use before or during sex in the past month. Bivariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the correlates of sexualized substance use. Adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. Results: The prevalence of sexualized substance use was 31.3% (95% CI: 28.7, 34.0). Inconsistent condom use during sex with clients in the past month (aPR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.71), regular (i.e., at least weekly in the past month) alcohol use (aPR = 2.87; 95% CI: 2.17, 3.80), regular opioid use (aPR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.45, 3.02), regular stimulant use (aPR = 2.68; 95% CI: 2.12, 3.39), and self-reported HIV negative status (aPR= 1.88; 95% CI: 1.14, 3.10) were significantly and positively associated with sexualized substance use. Conclusions: Sexualized substance use was associated with riskier sexual behavior and self-reported HIV sero-negativity. Harm reduction messaging to FSWs needs to go beyond focusing on sexual health promotion and further highlight the risks associated with sexualized substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Armita Shahesmaeili
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Gahlekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kianoush Kamali
- Midlife Health Office, Department of Population Health, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Centre On Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Brown School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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16
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Mehrabi F, Mehmandoost S, Mirzazadeh A, Noroozi A, Tavakoli F, Mirzaei H, Khezri M, Mousavian G, Ghalekhani N, Afsar Kazerooni P, Navaiian F, Farajzadeh Z, Shokoohi M, Sharifi H, Karamouzian M. Characterizing People Who Inject Drugs with no History of Opioid Agonist Therapy Uptake in Iran: Results from a National Bio-behavioural Surveillance Survey in 2020. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00992-x] [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: 12/28/2022] Open
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17
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Aronowitz SV, Carroll JJ, Hansen H, Jauffret-Roustide M, Parker CM, Suhail-Sindhu S, Albizu-Garcia C, Alegria M, Arrendondo J, Baldacchino A, Bluthenthal R, Bourgois P, Burraway J, Chen JS, Ekhtiari H, Elkhoy H, Farhoudian A, Friedman J, Jordan A, Kato L, Knight K, Martinez C, McNeil R, Murray H, Namirembe S, Radfar R, Roe L, Sarang A, Scherz C, Tay Wee Teck J, Textor L, Thi Hai Oanh K. Substance use policy and practice in the COVID-19 pandemic: Learning from early pandemic responses through internationally comparative field data. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3654-3669. [PMID: 36692903 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2129720] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has created an unprecedented natural experiment in drug policy, treatment delivery, and harm reduction strategies by exposing wide variation in public health infrastructures and social safety nets around the world. Using qualitative data including ethnographic methods, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews with people who use drugs (PWUD) and Delphi-method with experts from field sites spanning 13 different countries, this paper compares national responses to substance use during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Field data was collected by the Substance Use x COVID-19 (SU x COVID) Data Collaborative, an international network of social scientists, public health scientists, and community health practitioners convened to identify and contextualise health service delivery models and social protections that influence the health and wellbeing of PWUD during COVID-19. Findings suggest that countries with stronger social welfare systems pre-COVID introduced durable interventions targeting structural drivers of health. Countries with fragmented social service infrastructures implemented temporary initiatives for PWUD led by non-governmental organisations. The paper summarises the most successful early pandemic responses seen across countries and ends by calling for greater systemic investments in social protections for PWUD, diversion away from criminal-legal systems toward health interventions, and integrated harm reduction, treatment and recovery supports for PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshana V Aronowitz
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Jennifer J Carroll
- Department of Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, United States
| | - Helena Hansen
- UCLA Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Centre d'étude des mouvements sociaux (Inserm U12/76/CNRS UMR 8044/EHESS), Paris, France.,Baldy Center for Law and Social Policy, Buffalo University of Social Science, NY, USA
| | - Caroline Mary Parker
- The University of Manchester, Manchester University, Manchester, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Selena Suhail-Sindhu
- University of California Los Angeles, UCLA Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Carmen Albizu-Garcia
- Universidad de Puerto Rico, Graduate School of Public Health, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Margarita Alegria
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Disparities Research Unit, Boston, United States
| | - Jaimie Arrendondo
- Center for Research and Economic Teaching, Drug Policy Program, Aguascalientes, MX, Mexico
| | - Alexander Baldacchino
- Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Ricky Bluthenthal
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Philippe Bourgois
- Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Joshua Burraway
- Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, United States
| | - Jia-Shin Chen
- Institute of Science, Technology and Society, National Yang-Ming University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, United States
| | - Hussien Elkhoy
- Neurology and Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Farhoudian
- University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Joseph Friedman
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Ayana Jordan
- Psychiary, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Lindsey Kato
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Overdose Response Strategy, Atlanta, United States
| | - Kelly Knight
- Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Carlos Martinez
- Medical Anthropology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Ryan McNeil
- Addiction Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Hayley Murray
- Anthropology, Universiteit van Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Ramin Radfar
- Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Thought, Culture and Health Institute, Isfahan, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Laura Roe
- Social Anthropology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Anya Sarang
- Andrey Rylkov Foundation for Health and Social Justice, President, RU, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - China Scherz
- Anthropology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, United States
| | - Joe Tay Wee Teck
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Lauren Textor
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Khuat Thi Hai Oanh
- Center for Supporting Community Development Initiatives, Executive Director, Hanoi, VN, Vietnam
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18
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Khezri M, Tavakoli F, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, Ghalehkhani N, Mousavian G, Mehmandoost S, Bazargani M, Hosseinpour AM, Mahboubi M, Baral S, Shokoohi M. Public injecting and its association with mental health and other drug-related outcomes among people who inject drugs in Iran. J Subst Abuse Treat 2022; 143:108868. [PMID: 36137306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2022.108868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injecting in public places may increase the risk of drug and health-related harms among people who inject drugs (PWID). We examined the prevalence of public injecting and associations with non-fatal overdose, needle/syringe sharing, sexual health, and mental health among PWID in Iran. METHODS Using respondent-driven sampling, we recruited 2684 PWID from 11 major cities between July 2019 and March 2020. We defined public injecting as injecting primarily in public places, such as streets, parks, or abandoned buildings. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed public injecting and its associated factors, as well as the association of public injecting with certain health outcomes. RESULTS Of 2388 respondents, 69.6 % reported public injecting in the previous year. Self-identifying as men (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.21; 95 % confidence intervals [95 % CI]: 2.31, 7.65), homelessness (aOR = 6.81; 95 % CI: 5.10, 9.10), high injection frequency (aOR = 1.58; 95 % CI: 1.03, 2.44), and free needle/syringe uptake (aOR = 1.47; 95 % CI: 1.04, 2.07) were significantly associated with public injecting. Compared to PWID who primarily inject in non-public places, PWID who mostly used public places had significantly greater odds of reporting non-fatal overdose (aOR = 2.02; 95 % CI: 1.01, 4.02), needle/syringe sharing (aOR = 1.77; 95 % CI: 1.08, 2.90), unsafe sexual practices with casual sexual partners (aOR = 2.16; 95 % CI: 1.03, 4.55), suicidal ideation (aOR = 1.50; 95 % CI: 1.02, 2.21), and self-harm (aOR = 1.78; 95 % CI: 1.24, 2.54) in the last three months. CONCLUSION These results suggest the potential utility of a safer injecting environment to mitigate the multiple harms associated with public injecting in Iran. Optimizing health and well-being of PWID necessitates integrating supervised injection facilities into the current harm reduction programs and services in Iran. Future studies should also consider the experiences of additional mental health harms associated with public injecting when exploring adverse health outcomes among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States; Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, Saint Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalehkhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Matin Bazargani
- Center for HIV/STI Control and Prevention, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Hosseinpour
- Center for HIV/STI Control and Prevention, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Marzieh Mahboubi
- Center for Communicable Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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19
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Ezati E, Baghcheghi N, Araban M, Karimy M, Koohestani HR, Zabeti A, Hosseinzadeh H. Assessing drug use relapse rate and its associated factors among Iranian users. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2114387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Ezati
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Nayereh Baghcheghi
- Department of Nursing, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Marzieh Araban
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Public Health School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahmood Karimy
- Department of Public Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Koohestani
- Department of Medical Education, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Arezo Zabeti
- Department of Public Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Hassan Hosseinzadeh
- School of Health and Society, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
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20
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Shahesmaeili A, Karamouzian M, Tavakoli F, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A, Hosseini-Hooshyar S, Amirzadeh Googhari S, Ghalekhani N, Khajehkazemi R, Abdolahinia Z, Fahimfar N, Haghdoost A, Sharifi H. HIV prevalence and continuum of care among incarcerated people in Iran from 2010 to 2017. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:93. [PMID: 35987692 PMCID: PMC9392948 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00675-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Incarcerated people are at an increased risk of contracting HIV and transmitting it to the community post-release. In Iran, HIV epidemics inside prisons were first detected in the early 1990s. We assessed the HIV prevalence and its correlates, as well as the continuum of care among incarcerated people in Iran from 2010 to 2017.
Methods We used data collected in three national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys among incarcerated individuals in 2010 (n = 4,536), 2013 (n = 5,490), and 2017 (n = 5,785) through a multistage cluster sampling approach. HIV was tested by the ELISA method in 2010 and 2013 surveys and rapid tests in 2017. Data on demographic characteristics, risky behaviors, HIV testing, and treatment were collected via face-to-face interviews. HIV prevalence estimates along with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Using data from the 2017 round, multivariable logistic regression models were built to assess the correlates of HIV sero-positivity and conduct HIV cascade of care analysis.
Results The HIV prevalence was 2.1% (95% CI: 1.2%, 3.6%) in 2010, 1.7% (95% CI: 1.3%, 2.1%) in 2013, and 0.8% (95% CI: 0.6%, 1.1%) in 2017 (trend P value < 0.001). Among people with a history of injection drug use, HIV prevalence was 8.1% (95% CI: 4.6%, 13.8%) in 2010, 6.3% (95% CI: 4.8%, 8.3%) in 2013, and 3.9% (95% CI: 2.7%, 5.7%) in 2017. In 2017, 64% (32 out of 50) of incarcerated people living with HIV were aware of their HIV status, of whom 45% (9 out of 20) were on antiretroviral therapy, and of whom 44% (4 out of 9) were virally suppressed (< 1000 copies/ml). Conclusions While HIV prevalence has decreased among incarcerated people in Iran, their engagement in the HIV continuum of care is suboptimal. Further investments in programs to link incarcerated people to HIV care and retain them in treatment are warranted.
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21
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Gholami J, Baheshmat S, Rostam-Abadi Y, Hamzehzadeh M, Mojtabai R, Rahimi-Movaghar A, Amin-Esmaeili M. Mortality and negative outcomes of opioid use and opioid use disorder: a 6-year follow-up study. Addiction 2022; 117:2059-2066. [PMID: 35037359 DOI: 10.1111/add.15805] [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: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is a paucity of data on outcomes of opioid use disorder (OUD) from low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to investigate the mortality as well as negative social and health outcomes in a 6-year follow-up study of a cohort of individuals with opioid use, including those with OUD, in Iran. DESIGN AND SETTING Participants with opioid use initially interviewed in late 2011 in the Iranian National Mental Health Survey (IranMHS)-a household survey of 15-64-year-old population-were followed-up in early 2018. PARTICIPANTS All respondents (n = 236) who had reported use of any opioids at least five times during the 12-month period prior to the index interview were included in the study. MEASUREMENTS Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) version 2.1 was used for assessment of opioid use and OUD at baseline. Vital status in the follow-up was ascertained through contact with participants/informants, primarily via telephone calls and also through the death registration systems. Weighted incidence rates of negative consequences of opioid use (e.g. incarceration, suicide attempts, violent behavior) were estimated for those who were interviewed. FINDINGS Seven (3.3%) of the 236 participants with opioid use including four (3.1%) of the 136 with OUD had died by the time of the follow-up interview, resulting in death rates of 0.49 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.21-1.38] and 0.53 (95% CI = 0.16-2.62) per 100 person-years, respectively. Overall, 35.0% of participants with opioid use and 44.0% of those with OUD among the 145 individuals interviewed at follow-up experienced non-fatal serious adverse outcomes. CONCLUSIONS In Iran, opioid use and opioid use disorder are associated with increased mortality and other adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahab Baheshmat
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Hamzehzadeh
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health and Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Mental Health Department, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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22
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Farhoudian A, Radfar SR. How Substance Use Treatment Services in Iran Survived Despite a Dual Catastrophic Situation. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:S133-S135. [PMID: 35349327 PMCID: PMC8965175 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Farhoudian
- Ali Farhoudian is with the Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Seyed Ramin Radfar is with the School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
| | - Seyed Ramin Radfar
- Ali Farhoudian is with the Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Seyed Ramin Radfar is with the School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
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23
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Khezri M, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A, Tavakoli F, Ghalekhani N, Mousavian G, Mehmandoost S, Kazerooni PA, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H. HIV Prevalence and Related Behaviors Among People Who Inject Drugs in Iran from 2010 to 2020. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2831-2843. [PMID: 35195820 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03627-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Injection drug use has been the leading route of HIV transmission in Iran. We assessed HIV prevalence, risk behaviors, and uptake of prevention services among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran between 2010 and 2020. We also examined the individual and environmental determinants of HIV among PWID. PWID were recruited in major cities across the country in three national bio--behavioral surveillance surveys in 2010, 2014, and 2020. Participants were tested for HIV and interviewed using a behavioral questionnaire. Between 2010 and 2020, the prevalence of HIV (15.1% to 3.5%), receptive needle sharing (25.2% to 3.9%) and unprotected sex (79.4% to 65.2%) decreased. Moreover, uptake of free needle/syringe increased (57.4% to 87.9%), while uptake of free condoms remained relatively stable across the surveys (34.3% to 32.6%). Multivariable analysis for the 2020 survey showed that a history of homelessness, incarceration, and a longer injection career significantly increased the odds of HIV seropositivity. During the past decade, HIV prevalence and drug- and sexual-related risk behaviors decreased among Iranian PWID. However, individual and structural determinants continue to drive HIV among this population. HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment among marginalized PWID with a history of homelessness or incarceration and those who inject drugs for a longer period, should be further prioritized in HIV care planning and resource allocation in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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24
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Song MJ, Westenberg JN, Kianpoor K, Nikoo M, Kazemi A, Schuetz C, Jang K, Gholami A, Akhondzadeh S, Krausz M. Substance of choice, impact of heroin or opium on treatment retention in a multicentre randomised controlled trial in Iran. Drug Alcohol Rev 2022; 41:895-901. [PMID: 35170124 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13445] [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: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the Middle East and Asia, illicit opioid use exists across a spectrum between heroin and opium. The impact of primary opioid of choice on opioid agonist treatment retention has not been well evaluated previously, especially for opium tincture, an increasingly popular form of opioid agonist treatment in Iran. This study investigates the relationship between primary opioid of choice, namely heroin or opium, and retention in opium tincture and methadone treatment. METHODS Participants with opioid use disorder (n = 204) were randomised to receive opium tincture or methadone. All participants were categorised as mainly using opium or heroin. Bivariate analyses between treatment retention and primary opioid of choice (P < 0.05) and logistic regression were conducted. RESULTS Among the 191 participants included in this analysis, heroin was the primary substance of choice for 135 participants (70.7%) and opium for 56 (29.3%). Bivariate analysis showed that the opium group was more likely to be satisfied with family situation, employed and retained in treatment than the heroin group while less likely to experience incarceration and use multiple substances. When adjusting for covariates, primary opioid of choice was not significantly associated with retention in either methadone or opium tincture treatment arm. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Positive factors, such as employment, housing and family support, seem to collectively explain the higher retention in treatment among those who primarily use opium compared to those who use heroin. To optimise retention in opioid agonist treatment, biopsychosocial care models should be further evaluated to improve psychosocial functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Jae Song
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Kiana Kianpoor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mohammadali Nikoo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alireza Kazemi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Christian Schuetz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kerry Jang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ali Gholami
- Kian Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic, Private Practice and Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael Krausz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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25
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Rafiemanesh H, Rahimi-Movaghar A, Shadloo B, Rostam-Abadi Y, Nedjat S, Yazdani K. Prevalence, pattern, and associated factors of alcohol use disorder among male treatment-seeking people with illicit drug use disorder in Tehran, Iran. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.2020346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hosein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saharnaz Nedjat
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Yazdani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Rostam-Abadi Y, Gholami J, Noroozi A, Ansari M, Baheshmat S, Hamzehzadeh M, Ghadirzadeh MR, Vahdani B, Ekhtiari H, Mojtabai R, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Public health risks associated with methadone in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 100:103529. [PMID: 34826790 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a marked growth in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in Iran in the past two decades with positive health outcomes. We conducted a systematic review of studies on the prevalence of non-prescribed methadone use, methadone use disorder, and methadone-related poisoning and mortality in Iran. METHODS We searched International and Iranian databases up to May 2020 and contacted relevant experts. The pooled proportions were estimated through random-effects model. Methadone-related adverse outcomes were evaluated over time. RESULTS Sixty-five studies were included. The pooled estimates of non-prescribed methadone use in the last 12-month were 2.7% (95%CI: 0.9-5.4) and 0.1% (95%CI: 0.03-0.2) in the male and female general population, respectively. Among people who use drugs, 8.4% reported daily non-prescribed use in 2018. Four heterogeneous studies in drug treatment centers reported the existence of treatment-seeking for methadone use disorder. Methadone was responsible for 10.4% (95%CI: 4.5-18.3) of cases of acute poisoning in adults and 16.0% (95%CI: 9.3-24.1) in children. Methadone was reported as a cause of death in 53.5% of substance-related deaths referred to the Legal Medicine Organization while being the only cause in 35.8% of all cases. CONCLUSION Non-prescribed use of methadone in the general population is much less than opiates and some other available prescription opioids, like tramadol. However, notwithstanding the large and successful MMT program in Iran, increasing trends in methadone-related poisoning and deaths pose serious public health concerns. There is an urgent need to explore these fatal and non-fatal poisoning cases and implement policies to curb the harms associated with methadone use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Ansari
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahab Baheshmat
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Hamzehzadeh
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Bita Vahdani
- Center for Disease Affairs and Transplant, Ministry of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health and Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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27
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Gholami J, Rostam-Abadi Y, Rahimi J, Fotouhi A, Amin-Esmaeili M, Rahimi-Movaghar A. HIV prevalence among non-injecting people who use drugs and related factors in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Rev 2021; 41:666-676. [PMID: 34783411 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13407] [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: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
ISSUES This systematic review aimed to provide an updated estimate on the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among non-injecting people who use drugs (PWUD) and the various subgroups and the odds of HIV infection in the injecting compared to non-injecting PWUD. APPROACH A comprehensive search of international, regional and national databases was performed from January 2005 to May 2020. We conducted backward citation tracking of the included studies and contacted experts for unpublished studies. Studies providing HIV prevalence among non-injecting PWUD were included. Data were also drawn from a previous systematic review, covering 10 years from 1998 to 2007, and was added to the new database. The HIV prevalence was pooled for non-injecting PWUD and other subgroups using the random-effects model. KEY FINDINGS Seventeen studies with a total sample of 9912 non-injecting PWUD were found. The prevalence of HIV infection was 1.9% (95% confidence interval 0.9, 3.1) for 2007 and afterward (nine studies). It was not significantly different from the estimate for the years before 2007 (0.5%; 95% confidence interval 0.0, 2.0; eight studies). No significant difference was found among gender subgroups. The overall estimate of odds of HIV infection among injecting PWUD was 5.7 (95% confidence interval 3.2, 10.0) times higher than non-injecting PWUD. IMPLICATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS The HIV prevalence among the non-injecting PWUD was higher than the general population in Iran. Targeting non-injection PWUD by preventive measures such as harm reduction, drug and psychoeducation, and surveillance seem to be crucial in reducing HIV prevalence in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jamileh Rahimi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Akbar Fotouhi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Mental Health Department, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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28
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Ansari M, Rostam-Abadi Y, Baheshmat S, Hamzehzadeh M, Gholami J, Mojtabai R, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Buprenorphine abuse and health risks in Iran: A systematic review. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 226:108871. [PMID: 34214882 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Buprenorphine maintenance treatment (BMT) is widely used in Iran, and its use is growing continuously. We reviewed studies on buprenorphine use, non-prescribed use, use disorder and treatment-seeking for it, buprenorphine-associated poisoning, and mortality in Iran in the current systematic review. METHODS An Iranian database (Scientific Information Database; SID) and three International electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for publications up to August 2020 for the relevant data. Opportunistic methods (Contact with experts and backward citation tracking) were also used for this purpose. Identified records were screened for eligibility criteria, and data of included studies were extracted. For context, the trend of BMT in the country was also examined. RESULTS Ten studies were found on the prevalence of non-prescribed buprenorphine use, seven were on the regular use and use disorder, and two studies on buprenorphine poisoning. The last 12-month prevalence of non-prescribed use was lower than 0.5 % in the general population, university, and high school students. The indicator was 2.5 % among persons who use drugs in a 2018 national study. The proportion of buprenorphine poisoning was 4.9 % among all illicit substance poisoning cases admitted to a hospital. The proportion of buprenorphine poisoning cases among all acute pediatric drug poisoning cases increased from 1.2 % to 2.5 % in a 3-year study. CONCLUSION Despite the expansion of BMT in Iran in the last decade, the adverse health consequences associated with buprenorphine are infrequent, when compared to other opioids used in Iran, suggesting the safety of BMT for future expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Ansari
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Shahab Baheshmat
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marziyeh Hamzehzadeh
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA.
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Noroozi A, Conigrave KM, Mirrahimi B, Bastani P, Charkhgard N, Salehi M, Narenjiha H, Vaziri A, Kebriaeezadeh A. Factors influencing engagement and utilisation of opium tincture-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder: A qualitative study in Tehran, Iran. Drug Alcohol Rev 2021; 41:419-429. [PMID: 34309108 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13357] [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: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In response to a high burden of opioid use disorder (OUD), Iran established a network of opioid agonist treatment (OAT) centres beginning in 2002. To increase treatment diversity, particularly for patients who use opium as their drug of choice, opium tincture (OT)-assisted treatment was introduced to the network. This study aimed to explore factors influencing OT-assisted treatment selection for OUD in Tehran, Iran. METHODS We conducted 54 in-depth interviews with patients with OUD (n = 33), family members of patients (n = 9) and drug treatment providers (n = 12). Participants were recruited from 12 drug treatment centres across Tehran, between September and November 2019. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded in OpenCode 4.02 software and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Study participants more commonly reported individual-level factors as facilitators (e.g. to reduce harms associated with illicit opioid use, achieve recovery through a gradual dose reduction regimen combined with Congress 60 recovery program) and structural level factors (e.g. low adoption by OAT system and lack of familiarity of treatment providers) as barriers for utilisation of OT-assisted treatment regimens. OT was perceived to produce lower levels of physiological dependence than methadone, but the requirement for twice supervised dosing was restrictive. Low familial and community acceptance were also seen as barriers to access. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS This research identified a range of perceived benefits for OT-assisted treatment ranging from harm reduction to an intermediate step to achieve recovery. However, several structural-, individual-, familial- and community-level barriers impede its availability and acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Katherine M Conigrave
- Addiction Medicine, Sydney School of Medicine (Central Clinical School), The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bahareh Mirrahimi
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parsa Bastani
- Department of Anthropology, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Nader Charkhgard
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooman Narenjiha
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alaleh Vaziri
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Kebriaeezadeh
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Management and Economic Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Khezri M, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, Ghalekhani N, Tavakoli F, Mehmandoost S, Mehrabi F, Pedarzadeh M, Nejat M, Noroozi A, Baral S, Shokoohi M. Willingness to utilize supervised injection facilities among people who inject drugs in Iran: Findings from 2020 national HIV bio-behavioral surveillance survey. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 97:103355. [PMID: 34242959 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supervised injection facilities (SIFs) have not yet been integrated into Iran's harm reduction programs. This study aimed to report the extent to which people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran are willing to use SIFs. METHODS Participants were recruited from 11 major cities using respondent-driven sampling. Willingness to use SIFs was defined as a three-level categorical variable: low, moderate, or high. RESULTS Of 2,490 PWID, 52.8% and 23.8% reported high and moderate willingness to use SIFs, respectively. PWID with a history of homelessness (relative-risk ratio (RRR): 2.22, 95% CI: 1.76-2.80), incarceration (1.86 [1.48-2.35]), hepatitis C infection (1.49 [1.13-1.97]), and non-fatal overdose (2.30 [1.69-3.13]) were more likely to be willing to utilize SIFs. Willingness to use SIFs was also higher among PWID who reported recent public injecting (2.24 [1.70-2.97]), daily injection (1.82 [1.35-2.45]), stimulants injection (2.39 [1.41-4.07]), syringe sharing (3.09 [1.23-7.74]), harm reduction services utilization (2.80 [2.13-3.68]), and food insecurity (8.28 [5.43-12.63]). CONCLUSION The majority of PWID in Iran expressed willingness to use SIFs, in particular, those who were involved in higher-risk injection practices, dealing with structural risks, and had experienced drug-related harms. SIFs represent critical opportunities to deliver comprehensive harm reduction services to improve the health and well-being of PWID in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mehrabi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Marjan Pedarzadeh
- Center for HIV/STI Control and Prevention, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Nejat
- Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV, Surveillance Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada.
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Shadloo B, Baheshmat S, Rostam-Abadi Y, Shakeri A, Gholami J, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Comparison of self-reported substance use with biological testing among treatment-seeking patients with opioid use disorder. J Subst Abuse Treat 2021; 134:108555. [PMID: 34210569 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several factors may influence the validity of self-report. In this study, we aimed to assess the validity of self-reported drug use compared to urine testing among treatment-seeking patients with opioid use disorder (OUD). METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited 293 patients with OUD, referred to the Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS) clinic, from November 2015 to June 2017. The study compared self-reported opioid use in the past 72 h with the results of urinalysis, using immunoassay technique. We estimated sensitivity, negative predictive value, percent agreement, positive percent agreement, and Cohen's kappa statistics for those with OUD. RESULTS The sensitivity of self-reported opioid use was 85.9%. Percent agreement, positive percent agreement, and Cohen's Kappa statistics between self-reported opioid use and urine testing for morphine in the first month were 88.5%, 78.1%, and 77.0, respectively. Multilevel logistic regression showed that longer treatment duration (OR = 1.21, 95%CI: 1.07-1.37, p-value = 0.002) was significantly associated with the agreement of self-reported opioid use with urine testing. CONCLUSION Self-report can be used as a reliable method for monitoring treatment adherence combined with random urine tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., Tehran 1336616357, Iran.
| | - Shahab Baheshmat
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Atena Shakeri
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., Tehran 1336616357, Iran.
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Rafiemanesh H, Rahimi-Movaghar A, Haghdoost AA, Noroozi A, Gholami J, Vahdani B, Afshar A, Salehi M, Etemad K. Opium dependence and the potential impact of changes in treatment coverage level: A dynamic modeling study. Health Promot Perspect 2021; 11:240-249. [PMID: 34195048 PMCID: PMC8233677 DOI: 10.34172/hpp.2021.29] [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: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background : The most common drug, illegally used in Iran is opium. The treatment of people with substance use disorder is one of the most important strategies in reducing its burden. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different increasing and decreasing opium treatment coverage on the patterns of abstinence, transition to heroin dependence and mortality, over 30 years. Methods: This study was a dynamic compartmental modeling conducted in three stages: 1) presenting a conceptual model of opium dependence treatment in Iran, 2) estimating model's parameters value, and 3) modeling of opium dependence treatment and examining the outcomes for different treatment coverage scenarios. The input parameters of the model were extracted from the literature, and secondary data analysis, which were finalized in expert panels. Results: The number of opium dependence will increase from 1180550 to 1522063 [28.93% (95% CI: 28.6 to 29.2)] over 30 years. With a 25% decrease in coverage compared to the status quo, the number of deaths will increase by 459 cases [3.28% (95% CI: 0.91 to 5.7)] in the first year, and this trend will continue to be 2989 cases [15.63% (95% CI: 13.4 to 17.9)] in the 30th year. A 25% increase in treatment coverage causes a cumulative decrease of heroin dependence by 14451 cases [10.1% (95% CI: 9.5 to 10.8)] in the first decade. Conclusion: The modeling showed that the treatment coverage level reduction has a greater impact than the coverage level increase in the country and any amount of reduction in the coverage level, even to a small extent, may have a large negative impact in the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Vahdani
- Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Clinical Research Development Unit, 22 Bahman Hospital, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Amin Afshar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurosciences and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Department of Neurosciences and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Koorosh Etemad
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ghiabi M. Ontological journeys: The lifeworld of opium across the Afghan-Iranian border in/out of the pharmacy. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 89:103116. [PMID: 33485741 PMCID: PMC7611031 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
How can we conceive alternative policy models that embrace the empirical potentialities emerging from the lifeworld of drugs? The article reflects on this question, concluding that to reassess and to reinvent current policies on drugs, we need to think with a political ontology. Incidentally, the article also responds to the critique dismissing ontological inquiries as obstructing - or, at best, not informing - alternative drug policies. In an archaeological approach inspired by the work of Giorgio Agamben, the article unearths the case study of opium maintenance programme in Iran (1969-79), a forgotten policy experiment in an understudied and yet crucial geo-cultural environment for the global study of drugs. Mobilising the conceptual framework of ontological journeys, the article recomposes the lifeworld of opium within the horizons of transformative cultural practices, international borders, policy regimes and public ethics. Here, the materiality of drug consumption under the maintenance policy links with the changes in opium's transnational political economy and with shifting regimes of health and bioethical orthodoxy. Ontological journeys, hence, develop in a fluid space and time, making it possible to illuminate the lifeworld of drugs in places and times hitherto deserted by global policy studies. In building theoretical reflections upon a non-Western case, the article also incites the possibility of theory beyond Eurocentric knowledge and Euromerican cases. In this way, the article's purpose is to analyse the be-coming of opium beyond 'good' or 'evil', as a 'medicine' or a 'drug' and its real or perceived classification as 'licit' or 'illicit' across the Afghan-Iranian border. In conclusion, the article reflects upon the significance of this forgotten policy experiment, understood as an ontological journey, for contemporary drug policy and drug studies, but also for reinventing notions of care, welfare and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maziyar Ghiabi
- SOAS, University of London, Thornhaugh Street, London WC1H 0XG, UK; College of Social Sciences and International Studies, University of Exeter, UK.
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Rostam-Abadi Y, Rafiemanesh H, Gholami J, Shadloo B, Amin-Esmaeili M, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Hepatitis B virus infection among people who use drugs in Iran: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and trend analysis. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:81. [PMID: 33087141 PMCID: PMC7579800 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00424-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who use drugs (PWUD) are considered as one of the main at-risk populations for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We conducted a systematic review on the prevalence of HBV infection among PWUD in Iran. Methods Consistent with PRISMA guideline, international (Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) and national (Scientific Information Database) databases were searched using a comprehensive search strategy up to September 2019. The retrieved records were reviewed, and experts were contacted for unpublished studies. Studies on Iranian PWUD reporting HBV surface Antigen (HBsAg) prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) and non-injecting PWUD were included. HBsAg prevalence was pooled for PWID and non-injecting PWUD and for other subgroups using random-effects model meta-analysis. The trend of HBV prevalence over time was investigated using meta-regression analysis. Results Overall, 35 studies reported data on HBV infection among PWID (33 studies) and non-injecting PWUD (11 studies). The pooled prevalence of HBsAg among PWID was 4.8% (95% CI 3.7–6.2). The only risk factor significantly associated with the odds of positive HBsAg in PWID was the previous history of imprisonment (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.29–2.30, p value = 0.000). The pooled estimate of HBsAg among non-injecting PWUD was 2.9% (95% CI 2.5–3.2). Time trend analyses showed significant decrease in HBV prevalence among PWID reaching from 8.2% (95% CI 3.9–16.5) in 2004–2006 to 3.1% (95% CI 2.3–4.1) in 2016 and later (b = -0.07; p value = 0.05). No significant trend was detected for non-injecting PWUD. Conclusion The prevalence of HBV infection among non-injecting PWUD and even PWID was not considerably higher than the Iranian general population. This might be the result of extensive harm reduction interventions in Iran. However, it seems that there are subgroups of PWID, who do not adequately benefit from existing harm reduction interventions. Future programs should more specifically target these high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran.,Mental Health Department, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
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Nakhaeizadeh M, Abdolahinia Z, Sharifi H, Mirzazadeh A, Haghdoost AA, Shokoohi M, Baral S, Karamouzian M, Shahesmaeili A. Opioid agonist therapy uptake among people who inject drugs: the findings of two consecutive bio-behavioral surveillance surveys in Iran. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:50. [PMID: 32698875 PMCID: PMC7373839 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00392-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) uptake has been associated with multiple positive health outcomes among people who inject drugs (PWID). This study evaluated the pattern of OAT uptake among PWID in two consecutive national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys (2010 and 2014) in Iran. METHODS Data were obtained from two national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys (N2010 = 1783 and N2014 = 2166) implemented using convenience sampling at the harm reduction facilities and street venues in 10 geographically diverse urban centers across Iran. Multivariable logistic regression models were built to determine the correlates of OAT uptake for the 2014 survey, and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) along with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. RESULTS The prevalence of OAT uptake decreased from 49.2% in 2010 to 45.8% in 2014 (P value = 0.033). OAT uptake varied across the studied cities ranging from 0.0 to 69.3% in the 2010 survey and 3.2 to 75.5% in the 2014 survey. Ever being married (AOR = 1.40; 95% CI 1.12, 1.75), having a history of incarceration (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.16, 2.09), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) sero-positivity (AOR = 1.63; 95% CI 1.08, 2.50) were associated with OAT uptake. Conversely, PWID who reported using only non-opioid drugs (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI 0.26, 0.71) and those who reported concurrent use of opioid and non-opioid drugs (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI 0.51, 0.86) were less likely to uptake OAT. CONCLUSIONS Although OAT uptake among PWID in Iran is above the 40% threshold defined by the World Health Organization, there remain significant disparities across urban settings in Iran. Importantly, the OAT services appear to be serving high-risk PWID including those living with HIV and those with a history of incarceration. Evaluating service integration including mental health, HIV and hepatitis C virus care, and other harm reduction services may support the optimization of health outcomes associated with OAT across Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Nakhaeizadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
| | - Zahra Abdolahinia
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
- Division of Social and Behavioural Health Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Armita Shahesmaeili
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Haftbagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran.
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Farhoudian A, Baldacchino A, Clark N, Gerra G, Ekhtiari H, Dom G, Mokri A, Sadeghi M, Nematollahi P, Demasi M, Schütz CG, Hash-emian SM, Tabarsi P, Galea-Singer S, Carrà G, Clausen T, Kouimtsidis C, Tolomeo S, Radfar SR, Razaghi EM. COVID-19 and Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations to a Comprehensive Healthcare Response. An International Society of Addiction Medicine Practice and Policy Interest Group Position Paper. Basic Clin Neurosci 2020; 11:133-150. [PMID: 32855772 PMCID: PMC7368103 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.11.covid19.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is escalating all over the world and has higher morbidities and mortalities in certain vulnerable populations. People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) are a marginalized and stigmatized group with weaker immunity responses, vulnerability to stress, poor health conditions, high-risk behaviors, and lower access to health care services. These conditions put them at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection and its complications. In this paper, an international group of experts on addiction medicine, infectious diseases, and disaster psychiatry explore the possible raised concerns in this issue and provide recommendations to manage the comorbidity of COVID-19 and Substance Use Disorder (SUD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Farhoudian
- Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alexander Baldacchino
- Division of Population and Behavioral Sciences, St Andrews University Medical School, University of St Andrews, UK
| | - Nicolas Clark
- North Richmond Community Health, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gilberto Gerra
- Drug Prevention and Health Branch, Division for Operations, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Azarakhsh Mokri
- Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mandana Sadeghi
- Aftab Mehrvarzi Substance Abuse Treatment Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pardis Nematollahi
- Cancer Prevention Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryanne Demasi
- North Richmond Community Health, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christian G. Schütz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Seyed Mohammadreza Hash-emian
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Payam Tabarsi
- Clinical Tuberculosis and Epidemiology Research Center, National Research Institute for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Susanna Galea-Singer
- Institute for Innovation and Improvement, IWaitematâ DHB, Centre for Addictions Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Psychiatry, University of Milan Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF); University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Serenella Tolomeo
- Department of Psychology, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore
| | - Seyed Ramin Radfar
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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