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Marinelli S, Basile G, Manfredini R, Zaami S. Sex- and Gender-Specific Drug Abuse Dynamics: The Need for Tailored Therapeutic Approaches. J Pers Med 2023; 13:965. [PMID: 37373954 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060965] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex and gender have been gaining ever greater attention due to their associated risks, dynamics, patterns and protective factors underlying substance abuse and addiction. Such differentiations and the clarification of complexities thereof take on even greater relevance in light of drug abuse scope worldwide. According to the 2022 World Drug Report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in 2020 an estimated 284 million people worldwide aged 15-64 had used a drug within the last 12 months. The authors have set out to shed a light on determinants and contributing factors of drug abuse based on sex and gender and outline policy and medicolegal remarks aimed at delineating sex- and gender-based approaches towards drug abuse therapeutic interventions that are both therapeutically and ethically/legally viable and grounded in an evidence-based set of standards. Neurobiological data suggest that estrogen may facilitate drug taking by interacting with reward- and stress-related systems. In animal research, the administration of estrogen increases drug taking and facilitates the acquisition, escalation, and reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior. From a medicolegal perspective, it is of utmost importance to take into account the whole picture constituting each patient profile, which certainly includes gender factors and contributors, when outlining a therapeutic approach. Failure to do so could lead to negligence-based malpractice allegations, in light of the scientific findings representing best practices with which clinicians need to comply when caring for SUD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Marinelli
- School of Law, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Manfredini
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Zhang M, Li J, Fan J, Feng D, Li Q, Tang S, Li J. Cross-border Activities Associated With Pattern of Amphetamine-type Stimulants Usage Among Drug Users in Southwest of China. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2023; 60:469580231206608. [PMID: 37902428 PMCID: PMC10617300 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231206608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Cross-border activities are possibly associated with the use of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), this study was to explore poly-substance of ATS use and influencing factors among ATS use populations in southwest China. A cross-sectional study was conducted by response driven and continuous samplings from January to July 2021. Descriptive, univariate and logistic regression were carried out. ATS users accounted for 95.6% of the target population, of whom one-third had cross-border experiences with 4.1% of the cross-border purchase of drugs. ATS users were mainly over 31 years old (53.9%), male (98.7%), minority (79.1%), and unmarried (72.7%). Cross-border users consumed more ketamine (8%) and methamphetamine (40%) (P < .05). After adjusting for socioeconomic-demographic factors, cross-border activity [OR: 0.336 (0.141, 0.799)], occupation [OR: 0.273 (0.080, 0.929)], injecting drug behavior [OR: 6.239 (1. 087, 35.811)], frequency [OR: 0.251 (0.073, 0.859)], and ATS use location [OR: 2.915 (1.040, 8.168)] were possible factors influencing ATS use patterns (P < .05). Cross-border activity may be associated with polydrug use, especially predominantly methamphetamine use, among ATS users along the Southwest border. It implied that the focus of drug prevention and control in border areas should be on cross-border populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingmei Zhang
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiashuang Li
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianhua Fan
- Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Jinghong, Yunnan, China
| | - Dongli Feng
- The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention in Jinghong, Jinghong, Yunnan, China
| | - Qun Li
- Department of Clinical Skills Centre, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Songyuan Tang
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Merghati Khoei E, Mohraz M, Mohammadi S, Brady KT, Killeen T, Korte JE, Rezaei Z. Gender differences in sexual risk behaviors among population with substance use disorders, Iran. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2098843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Effat Merghati Khoei
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Mohammadi
- Health Metrics Research Center, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kathleen T. Brady
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jeffrey E. Korte
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA
| | - Zahed Rezaei
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
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O’Brien S, Jaramillo MM, Roberts B, Platt L. Determinants of health among people who use illicit drugs in the conflict-affected countries of Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar: a systematic review of epidemiological evidence. Confl Health 2022; 16:39. [PMID: 35799203 PMCID: PMC9264525 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar are the world's leading heroin and cocaine producers and have also experienced prolonged periods of armed conflict. The link between armed conflict and drug markets is well established but how conflict impacts on the health and social determinants of people who use drugs is less clear. The aim was to investigate health outcomes and associated factors among people who use illicit drugs in Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar. METHODS We conducted a systematic review searching Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Global Health databases using terms relating to Afghanistan, Colombia and Myanmar; illicit drug use (all modes of drug administration); health and influencing factors. Quality assessment was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale and papers were analysed narratively. RESULTS 35 studies were included in Afghanistan (n = 15), Colombia (n = 9) and Myanmar (n = 11). Health outcomes focused predominantly on HIV, Hepatitis C (HCV), Hepatitis B and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with one study looking at human rights violations (defined as maltreatment, abuse and gender inequality). Drug use was predominantly injection of heroin, often alongside use of amphetamines (Myanmar), cocaine and cocaine-based derivatives (Colombia). Only one study measured the effect of a period of conflict suggesting this was linked to increased reporting of symptoms of STIs and sharing of needles/syringes among people who inject drugs. Findings show high levels of external and internal migration, alongside low-income and unemployment across the samples. External displacement was linked to injecting drugs and reduced access to needle/syringe programmes in Afghanistan, while initiation into injecting abroad was associated with increased risk of HCV infection. Few studies focused on gender-based differences or recruited women. Living in more impoverished rural areas was associated with increased risk of HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS More research is needed to understand the impact of armed-conflict and drug production on the health of people who use drugs. The immediate scale-up of harm reduction services in these countries is imperative to minimize transmission of HIV/HCV and address harms associated with amphetamine use and other linked health and social care needs that people who use drugs may face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally O’Brien
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XFaculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Margarita Marin Jaramillo
- grid.10689.360000 0001 0286 3748Observatorio de Restitución Y Regulación de los Derechos de Propiedad Agraria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Bayard Roberts
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XFaculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Monk-Turner E, Fu H, Li J, Yang X. How Adverse Childhood Experiences and Gender Shape Perceptions of Synthetic Drug Use and Desistance in Yunnan, China. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00220426221108689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Past research on illicit drug use and desistance has primarily been conducted in western countries, relied on quantitative data, and given little attention to potential gender differentiation. Utilizing qualitative data, we explore gender differences in how illicit drug users perceive the onset of use, whether or not they connect this to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and why they quit. The work is based on a sample of 24 informants from Yunnan. Women link onset of use to adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and report quitting primarily for their children. Men found support from their families helpful in ending illicit drug use. This adds qualitative support to theoretical work done by Wu and colleagues, Zhang, and Zhang and Demant who argue that familial attachment is critical in desistance. Utilizing a gendered lens, we gain and nuanced understanding of illicit drug use and links to ACEs which may better inform intervention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hongyun Fu
- Pediatrics: Community Health and Research, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | | | - Xiushi Yang
- Sociology & Criminal Justice, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Ssekamatte T, Kibira SPS, Tetui M, Isunju JB, Mugambe RK, Wafula ST, Buregyeya E, Nalwadda CK, Bukenya JN, Wanyenze RK. Do sexual expectancies and inhibitions predict high-risk sexual behaviours? Evidence from a cross-sectional survey among young psychoactive substance users in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1506. [PMID: 34348701 PMCID: PMC8336356 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11536-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychoactive substance use is a public health challenge among young people in informal settlements. Though rarely examined, psychoactive substance use is linked to sexual expectancies and inhibitions, and consequently high-risk sexual behaviours. This study examined the association between sexual expectancies and inhibitions, and high-risk sexual behaviours among young psychoactive substance users (PSUs) in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited 744 young PSUs from informal settlements in Kampala. Respondent driven sampling was used to recruit respondents. A 'modified' Poisson regression model was used for inferential statistics. Data were analysed using the Stata 14 software. RESULTS Of the 744 study participants, 45.6% believed that psychoactive substance use improves sexual performance; 43.3% believed that psychoactive substances make sex more pleasurable, and 53.3% believed that psychoactive substances give courage or confidence to approach a partner for sex. The belief that psychoactive substance use improves sexual performance (PR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.01-1.30), increases the likelihood of engaging in sex (PR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.04-1.40) or gives courage or confidence to approach a sexual partner (PR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.05-1.39) were associated with having sex while under the influence of psychoactive substances. The belief that a psychoactive substance user under the influence of psychoactive substances is more likely to engage in sex (PR 1.48, 95% CI: 1.15-1.90), and likely to find it difficult to refuse sex (PR 1.28, 95% CI: 1.06-1.55) were positively associated with engaging in multiple sexual partnerships. The belief that one easily forgets to use a condom when under the influence of psychoactive substances was positively associated with inconsistent condom use (PR 1.26, 95% CI: 1.09-1.45). CONCLUSION Psychoactive substance use expectancies associated with high-risk sexual behaviours included the belief that psychoactive substances improve sexual performance and improve confidence in approaching a sexual partner. Psychoactive substance use inhibitions associated with high-risk sexual behaviours included an increased likelihood of engaging in sexual intercourse, difficulties in refusing to engage in sexual intercourse, and forgetting to use condoms while intoxicated. Interventions targeting a reduction in high-risk sexual behaviour should integrate the impact of psychoactive substance use on sexual behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonny Ssekamatte
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon P. S. Kibira
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Tetui
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
- Departement of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Bosco Isunju
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard K. Mugambe
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Solomon Tsebeni Wafula
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Esther Buregyeya
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christine Kayemba Nalwadda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Justine Nnakate Bukenya
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda K. Wanyenze
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
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Carroll D, Wulan N, Swe ZY, Myint AA, Sanda S, Lwin AM, Oo T, Khaing LL, San CC, Tun WPP, Cini K, Win PM, Azzopardi P. Mental health of adolescents in Myanmar: A systematic review of prevalence, determinants and interventions. Asian J Psychiatr 2021; 61:102650. [PMID: 34004460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2021.102650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental phase where mental disorders typically manifest and where platforms for response (including schools and health services) change rapidly. However, data to inform public mental health responses are limited, including in countries like Myanmar which has a large adolescent population and where mental health has been identified as a priority of policy. In this paper we sought to systematically review the peer-reviewed and grey literature to determine (i) the prevalence of mental disorder among adolescents in Myanmar, (ii) determinants of mental disorder and (iii) interventions that have been implemented and evaluated. Nine publications met inclusion criteria (7 peer-reviewed and 2 grey literature) that included 7 publications reporting prevalence, 6 reporting correlates and one an intervention. The available data from the 2016 Global School-based Health Survey highlight that depression (27.2%) and suicidal ideation (9.4%) are prevalent in Myanmar, and these rates are substantially higher than regional averages. The limited available data on correlates identified violence and bullying, alcohol and substance use, and home, family and community security and cohesion as being closely related to mental health for adolescents. Only one study focussed on interventions and this found mindfulness meditation training to be an effective approach for young people whose parents were affected by HIV. These findings underscore the need to address adolescent mental health in Myanmar, but also to invest in better data collection efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Carroll
- Department of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia; Global Adolescent Health Group, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nisaa Wulan
- Global Adolescent Health Group, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Sanda Sanda
- Ministry of Health and Sports, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | | | - Tin Oo
- University of Medicine, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Cho Cho San
- Department of Psychology, Yangon University of Distance Education, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Win Pa Pa Tun
- Department of Psychology, Yangon University of Distance Education, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Karly Cini
- Global Adolescent Health Group, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Peter Azzopardi
- Global Adolescent Health Group, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Wardliparingga Aboriginal Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
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8
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Shimane T, Takahashi M, Kobayashi M, Takagishi Y, Takeshita Y, Kondo A, Omiya S, Takano Y, Yamaki M, Matsumoto T. Gender Differences in the Relationship between Methamphetamine Use and High-risk Sexual Behavior among Prisoners: A Nationwide, Cross-sectional Survey in Japan. J Psychoactive Drugs 2021; 54:9-17. [PMID: 33977855 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2021.1918805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the relationship between methamphetamine (MA) use and high-risk sexual behavior among newly incarcerated prisoners in Japan. We conducted a secondary analysis using cross-sectional survey data, which constituted a nationwide prison sample surveyed between July and November 2017. In total, 699 participants (462 male and 237 female prisoners), who completed the self-administered questionnaire during imprisonment were recruited for the study. The prevalence of high-risk sexual behaviors was as follows: inconsistent condom use (78.4% male, 81.7% female), multiple sexual partners (61.3% male, 41.3% female), history of sexually transmitted diseases (14.1% male, 23.6% female), and trading sex for drugs (15.6% male, 17.7% female). A logistic regression analysis showed that MA use during sex increased the likelihood of high-risk sexual behavior in both male (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 5.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.41-10.07) and female prisoners (AOR = 2.58; 95% CI = 1.33-5.00). Additionally, in female prisoners, a history of sharing MA injection (AOR = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.06-2.42) increased high-risk sexual behavior. Our results indicate that harm reduction programs tailored according to the specific necessities of each gender to reduce high-risk sexual behaviors among MA users should be included in Japanese drug policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Shimane
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Takahashi
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.,Ochanomizu University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michiko Kobayashi
- Research Department, Research and Training Institute, Ministry of Justice of Japan, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuriko Takagishi
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Psychology, Surugadai University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Takeshita
- Kawagoe Juvenile Prison, Ministry of Justice of Japan, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ayumi Kondo
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soichiro Omiya
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.,Joetsu University of Education, Niigata, Japan
| | - Youichi Takano
- Yokohama Prison, Ministry of Justice of Japan, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mayuko Yamaki
- Training Institute for Correctional Personnel, Ministry of Justice of Japan, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Matsumoto
- Department of Drug Dependence Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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The role of sexual compulsivity in unprotected intercourse among STI patients in Shanghai, China. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:141. [PMID: 33446160 PMCID: PMC7809841 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10186-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual compulsivity (SC) and its relationship with unprotected intercourse (UI) have long been an intriguing topic, but its existential meaning in the management of public health or, more precisely, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has rarely been studied to date. This study examines whether SC plays a role in UI among sexually active STI patients. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted in two sexual transmitted disease (STD) clinicals of Shanghai Skin Diseases Hospital in Shanghai. Totally 664 sexually active STI patients were included. Results The ages of the 664 participants ranged from 18 to 76 years, with 58.73% between 26 and 40 years old. 449 (191 male and 258 female) reported had UI during the past 6 months. Although the only statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) was in relation to UI with a casual sexual partner, the difference between male/female and regular/casual sexual partners remained evident. Conclusions SC is evidently a potential predictor of UI with a casual sexual partner in male STI patients, while the use of condoms is more likely to be affected by other factors. In addition to general sexual education, counseling interventions should be provided by health institutions, and specific intervention methods targeting gender and sexual partners should be considered.
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10
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Ahuja N, Schmidt M, Dillon PJ, Alexander AC, Kedia S. Online Narratives of Methamphetamine Use and Risky Sexual Behavior: Can Shame-Free Guilt Aid in Recovery? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:323-332. [PMID: 32671499 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01777-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (meth) use is a recurring public health challenge in the U.S. In 2016, approximately 1.6 million Americans reported using meth. Meth use is associated with a number of adverse outcomes, including those associated with users' sexual health. In particular, meth use is linked to an increased risk for sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. While studies have examined associations between substance use of various types-including meth use, and shame and guilt-few studies have examined relationships among substance use, sexual risk behaviors, and shame and guilt. No qualitative studies, to our knowledge, have studied all three of these phenomena in a sample of meth users. The present qualitative study explored the sexual risk behaviors and associated feelings of shame and guilt in relation to meth use. It draws from anonymous letters and stories (N = 202) posted to an online discussion forum by meth users and their family members. A grounded theory analysis of these narratives identified four primary themes pertaining to meth use and sexual behaviors: (1) feeling heightened sexual arousal and stimulation on meth, (2) experiencing sexual dissatisfaction on meth, (3) responding to sexual arousal and dissatisfaction, and (4) feeling ashamed and/or guilty. Ultimately, the present findings indicate that feelings of shame and guilt may arise more from the consequences of sexual risk behaviors stemming from meth use rather than meth use itself. The emotional toll of meth-induced sexual risk behaviors, particularly shame and guilt over the loss of meaningful relationships and self-respect due to multiple sexual partners, may provide an important opportunity for interventionists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Ahuja
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA
| | - Michael Schmidt
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA
| | - Patrick J Dillon
- School of Communication Studies, Kent State University at Stark, North Canton, OH, USA
| | - Adam C Alexander
- The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Satish Kedia
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA.
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11
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Kuiper LB, Lucas KA, Mai V, Coolen LM. Enhancement of Drug Seeking Following Drug Taking in a Sexual Context Requires Anterior Cingulate Cortex Activity in Male Rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:87. [PMID: 32670029 PMCID: PMC7330085 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00087] [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: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Individual variance in vulnerability to develop addictions is influenced by social factors. Specifically, drug-taking in a sexual context appears to enhance further drug-seeking behavior in human users, as these users identify the effects of drugs to enhance sexual pleasure as a primary reason for continued drug use. Methamphetamine (Meth) is commonly used in this context. Similarly, male rats that self-administered Meth immediately followed by sexual behavior display enhanced drug-seeking behavior, including attenuation of extinction and increased reinstatement to seeking of Meth-associated cues. Hence, drug-taking in a sexual context enhances vulnerability for addiction. However, the neural mechanisms by which this occurs are unknown. Here the hypothesis was tested that medial prefrontal cortex is essential for this effect of Meth and sex when experienced concurrently. First it was shown that CaMKII neurons in the anterior cingulate area (ACA) were co-activated by both Meth and sex. Next, chemogenetic inactivation of ACA CaMKII cells using AAV5-CaMKIIa-hM4Di-mCherry was shown not to affect Meth-induced locomotor activity or sexual behavior. Subsequently, chemogenetic inactivation of ACA CaMKII neurons during Meth self-administration followed by sexual behavior was shown to prevent the effects of Meth and sex on enhanced reinstatement of Meth-seeking but did not affect enhanced drug-seeking during extinction tests. These results indicate that ACA CaMKII cell activation during exposure to Meth in a sexual context plays an essential role in the subsequent enhancement of drug-seeking during reinstatement tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey B Kuiper
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Kathryn A Lucas
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Vy Mai
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Lique M Coolen
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States.,Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States.,Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
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12
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Khan SI, Khan MNM, Hasan AMR, Irfan SD, Horng LMS, Chowdhury EI, Azim T. Understanding the reasons for using methamphetamine by sexual minority people in Dhaka, Bangladesh. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 73:64-71. [PMID: 31344562 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, methamphetamine use is prevalent among males who have sex with males (MSM) and transgender women (hijra), with studies showing its association with risky sexual behaviours leading to HIV transmission. This study aimed to explore the underlying reasons for methamphetamine use among MSM and hijra in Bangladesh. METHODS We conducted 30 in-depth interviews with MSM and hijra and six focus groups with MSM, hijra and service providers. Data were thematically analysed using manual data analysis procedures. FINDING Reasons cited for using methamphetamine varied across feminized MSM (i.e. kothis), masculine MSM (i.e. panthis), male sex workers and hijra. For sex workers, increased sexual pleasure and consequent ability to take more clients increased their income. For panthis, methamphetamine enhanced feelings of masculinity and sexual prowess. Kothis were able to feel more feminine due to their ability to receive multiple partners each night. For all participants, methamphetamine restored self-esteem and relieved the stress resulting from stigma. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that reasons for using methamphetamine are not only rooted in the individual's psyche but also grounded in the socio-cultural expectations about masculinities and femininities in Bangladeshi society. Limited knowledge about the complexities concerning methamphetamine use mean that appropriate counselling and treatment services are non-existent in Bangladesh. The study findings can be used to refine national and international harm reduction policies so as to incorporate and address methamphetamine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharful Islam Khan
- Program for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Bangladesh.
| | | | - A M Rumayan Hasan
- Program for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Bangladesh
| | | | - Lily Ming-Sha Horng
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, United States
| | | | - Tasnim Azim
- BRAC James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Bangladesh
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Liu L, Chui WH, Chai X. A qualitative study of methamphetamine initiation among Chinese male users: Patterns and policy implications. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 62:37-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 07/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kuiper LB, Coolen LM. Compulsive Sexual Behavior in Humans and Preclinical Models. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-018-0157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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