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Latimer A, Pope ND, Lin CY, Kang J, Sasdi O, Wu JR, Moser DK, Lennie T. Adapting the serious illness conversation guide for unhoused older adults: a rapid qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:153. [PMID: 38886741 PMCID: PMC11181539 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01485-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults experiencing homelessness (OAEH) age quickly and die earlier than their housed counterparts. Illness-related decisions are best guided by patients' values, but healthcare and homelessness service providers need support in facilitating these discussions. The Serious Illness Conversation Guide (SICG) is a communication tool to guide discussions but has not yet been adapted for OAEH. METHODS We aimed to adapt the SICG for use with OAEH by nurses, social workers, and other homelessness service providers. We conducted semi-structured interviews with homelessness service providers and cognitive interviews with OAEH using the SICG. Service providers included nurses, social workers, or others working in homeless settings. OAEH were at least 50 years old and diagnosed with a serious illness. Interviews were conducted and audio recorded in shelters, transitional housing, a hospital, public spaces, and over Zoom. The research team reviewed transcripts, identifying common themes across transcripts and applying analytic notetaking. We summarized transcripts from each participant group, applying rapid qualitative analysis. For OAEH, data that referenced proposed adaptations or feedback about the SICG tool were grouped into two domains: "SICG interpretation" and "SICG feedback". For providers, we used domains from the Toolkit of Adaptation Approaches: "collaborative working", "team", "endorsement", "materials", "messages", and "delivery". Summaries were grouped into matrices to help visualize themes to inform adaptations. The adapted guide was then reviewed by expert palliative care clinicians for further refinement. RESULTS The final sample included 11 OAEH (45% Black, 61 ± 7 years old) and 10 providers (80% White, 8.9 ± years practice). Adaptation themes included changing words and phrases to (1) increase transparency about the purpose of the conversation, (2) promote OAEH autonomy and empowerment, (3) align with nurses' and social workers' scope of practice regarding facilitating diagnostic and prognostic awareness, and (4) be sensitive to the realities of fragmented healthcare. Responses also revealed training and implementation considerations. CONCLUSIONS The adapted SICG is a promising clinical tool to aid in the delivery of serious illness conversations with OAEH. Future research should use this updated guide for implementation planning. Additional adaptations may be dependent on specific settings where the SICG will be delivered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Latimer
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
| | - Natalie D Pope
- College of Social Work, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Chin-Yen Lin
- College of Nursing, University of Auburn, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - JungHee Kang
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Olivia Sasdi
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jia-Rong Wu
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Debra K Moser
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Terry Lennie
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Eshun E, Burke O, Do F, Maciver A, Mathur A, Mayne C, Mohamed Jemseed AA, Novak L, Siddique A, Smith E, Tapia-Stocker D, FitzGerald A. Exploring the Role of Rehabilitation Medicine within an Inclusion Health Context: Examining a Population at Risk from Homelessness and Brain Injury in Edinburgh. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:769. [PMID: 38929015 PMCID: PMC11203637 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
People experiencing homelessness are at risk from a number of comorbidities, including traumatic brain injury, mental health disorders, and various infections. Little is known about the rehabilitation needs of this population. This study took advantage of unique access to a specialist access GP practice for people experiencing homelessness and a local inclusion health initiative to explore the five-year period prevalence of these conditions in a population of people experiencing homelessness through electronic case record searches and to identify barriers and facilitators to healthcare provision for this population in the context of an interdisciplinary and multispecialist inclusion health team through semi-structured interviews with staff working in primary and secondary care who interact with this population. The five-year period prevalence of TBI, infections, and mental health disorders was 9.5%, 4%, and 22.8%, respectively. Of those who had suffered a brain injury, only three had accessed rehabilitation services. Themes from thematic analysis of interviews included the impact of psychological trauma, under-recognition of the needs of people experiencing homelessness, resource scarcity, and the need for collaborative and adaptive approaches. The combination of quantitative and qualitative data suggests a potential role for rehabilitation medicine in inclusion health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Eshun
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Astley Ainslie Hospital, NHS Lothian, 133 Grange Loan, Edinburgh EH9 2HL, UK;
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Orla Burke
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Florence Do
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Angus Maciver
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Anushka Mathur
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Cassie Mayne
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Aashik Ahamed Mohamed Jemseed
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Levente Novak
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Anna Siddique
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Eve Smith
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - David Tapia-Stocker
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK (A.A.M.J.)
| | - Alasdair FitzGerald
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Astley Ainslie Hospital, NHS Lothian, 133 Grange Loan, Edinburgh EH9 2HL, UK;
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Birhanu MY, Bekele GM, Jemberie SS. Molecular detection of rifampicin-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis by polymerase chain reaction in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1319845. [PMID: 38912342 PMCID: PMC11190194 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1319845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The emergence and spread of drug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis in both developing and developed countries has made diagnosis, treatment, and control of tuberculosis more difficult. The PCR assay, which is a fast and sensitive technique and an alternative method for detecting multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, is used to determine rifampicin (RIF) resistance. There is no single figure in Ethiopia that represents rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis and that is why this study was conducted to overcome the inconsistency of the results of the previous studies. Methods Studies were researched from five major electronic databases. Studies which were cross-sectional in design, published, and written in English were included. The data were extracted using Microsoft Excel, and the data were managed and analyzed using Stata™ Version 17.0 statistical software. The Forest plot was used to check the presence of heterogeneity. The publication bias, meta-regression, and subgroup analysis were used to find out the source of heterogeneity. A random effect analysis model was used to pool the prevalence of RR TB from primary studies, and associated factors of RR among TB patients were identified using Meta regression. The presence of association was reported using OR with 95% CI. Results The overall pooled prevalence of tuberculosis was 14.9% (95% CI: 13.34, 16.46), of these approximately 7.48% (95% CI: 6.30, 8.66) showed rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis in Ethiopia. Among the computed variables, 2.05% living with HIV1.39 (95%CI: 1.13, 1.72) and having a history of TB treatment (95%CI: 1.34, 3.15) were identified as significant factors associated with RR TB in Ethiopia. Conclusion Drug-resistant TB is one of the prevalent emerging infectious diseases among TB patients, which affects approximately one out of every thirteen TB patients. Having TB-HIV coinfection and a history of prior TB treatment were identified as significant factors associated with RR TB. To prevent and control RR TB, patients should complete their follow-up course; the health professionals should educate the actions taken by the patients when they experience drug toxicity and side effects; and the Minister of Health should initiate telemedicine and recruit tracers to overcome TB patients' default and have good drug adherence and retention after initiation of the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molla Yigzaw Birhanu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Getamesay Molla Bekele
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Selamawit Shita Jemberie
- Department of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Pan EJ, Liu JC, Zha AC, Seballos SS, Falcone T, Phelan M, Weleff J. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in Unhoused Children Increase Odds of Psychiatric Illness, Physical Illness, and Psychiatric Admission. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2024; 17:363-372. [PMID: 38938936 PMCID: PMC11199423 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-023-00608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Unhoused children and adolescents have high rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The objective of this study was to characterize a large cohort of unhoused children and investigate rates of psychiatric diagnoses, medical diagnoses, and utilization of emergency department (ED) resources depending on the presence of additional documented ACEs. A retrospective cohort of all unhoused children who presented to the ED of a large Midwestern health system from January 2014 to July 2019 were included. Unhoused status was determined by address field or ICD-10 code for homelessness (Z59.0). Demographics and ED visits were extracted from the electronic health record. Past medical history, ACEs, chief complaint (CC), length of stay (LOS), imaging, and labs were extracted by chart review. T-tests, chi square tests, and Fisher's exact tests were completed for each sub-analysis. Unhoused children with at least one additional ACE had higher odds of the following psychiatric disorders: depression (OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 3.4- 7.9), anxiety (OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 32.1-5.5), behavioral disorder (OR = 7.2, 95% CI = 35.1- 10.4), psychoses (OR = 6.0, 1.9-18.4), bipolar disorder (OR = 19.8, 95% CI = 34.6-84.9), suicidal ideation (OR = 8.0, 95% CI = 34.8-13.4), post-traumatic stress disorder (OR = 10.1, 95% CI = 35.4-18.6), and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (OR = 4.1, 3.0-5.7). Patients with additional documented ACEs were also more likely to have a prior psychiatric admission (p < 0.001). Unhoused children and adolescents with exposure to additional documented ACEs are more likely to have some serious psychiatric and medical diagnoses compared to other unhoused children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J. Pan
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neurosciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Jessica C. Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Alexander C. Zha
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Spencer S. Seballos
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Tatiana Falcone
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Health, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Michael Phelan
- Emergency Services Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Jeremy Weleff
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
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Radó N, Békási S, Győrffy Z. Health Technology Access and Peer Support Among Digitally Engaged People Experiencing Homelessness: Qualitative Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e55415. [PMID: 38743937 PMCID: PMC11134250 DOI: 10.2196/55415] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the effects of digital health are receiving wide scientific attention, very little is known about the characteristics of digitally engaged people experiencing homelessness, especially in Central and Eastern Europe. Our previous research revealed a considerable level of internet use in the homeless population of Budapest, Hungary, for general purposes (350/662, 52.9%) and medical purposes (229/664, 34.6%). Moreover, a digitally engaged subgroup was identified (129/662, 19.5%). OBJECTIVE The aim of this exploratory study was to map out the resources, attitudes, and behaviors of digitally engaged homeless individuals in relation to digital technology to set the basis for potential health policy interventions, which will enable better access to health services through strengthening of the digital components of the existing health care system. METHODS Between August 18, 2022, and October 27, 2022, a total of 12 in-depth semistructured interviews were conducted in 4 homeless shelters in Budapest, Hungary. Upon analysis by 3 independent evaluators, 2 interviews were excluded. The interviewees were chosen based on purposive sampling with predefined inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. RESULTS In the thematic analysis, 4 main themes (attitude, access, usage patterns, and solutions for usage problems) emerged. Health-related technology use mostly appeared in health information-seeking behavior. Online search for prescribed medications (5 interviews), active ingredients of medications (4 interviews), medicinal herbs believed to replace certain pills (2 interviews) or foods, and natural materials (1 interview) were mentioned. Moreover, mobile health app use (3 interviews) was reported. The intention to circumvent or check on mainstream health care solutions was mainly associated with previous negative experiences in the health care system. Several gaps in the daily use of technology were identified by the interviewees; however, more than half of the interviewees (6/10) turned out to be contact points for their peers for digital problem-solving or basic digital literacy skill enhancement in the homeless shelters. Furthermore, a lack of institutional support or special programs targeting senior clients was noted. CONCLUSIONS Digitally engaged homeless individuals might become mediators between their peers and comprehensive digital health programs. They have the trust of their peers, can recognize and harness the benefits of digital technology, and are able to provide meaningful help in technology- and usage-related issues through experience. Digital health services have great promise in community shelters for managing and preventing health issues, and digitally engaged individuals might be important for the success of such services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nóra Radó
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Health Center, Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sándor Békási
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Health Center, Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsa Győrffy
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Henriques-Calado J, Gama Marques J. Homeless people: a review of personality disorders. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1362723. [PMID: 38779545 PMCID: PMC11110170 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1362723] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Personality disorders in homeless people pose a challenge to the medical community and society, requiring specialized approaches for these super-difficult patients. The prevalence of personality disorders is higher in homeless populations than in the general population. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding personality disorders among people experiencing homelessness, and the implications of this lack of recognition are substantial. This paper provides a brief narrative review of personality disorders among homeless individuals. The primary importance and specificity of these disorders in this population remain unexplored. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases in February and November 2023 using the keywords 'homeless' and 'personality disorder', and selected fifty-eight studies to be included in this literature review. The main themes of the results were personality disorders in homeless individuals and comorbid psychiatric disorders; risk factors and other psychological and behavioral data; clinical and intervention outcomes; and challenges linked to assessment, treatment, and intervention. The homeless population experiences significant diagnostic variability and the diagnosis of personality disorders is still evolving, contributing to difficulties in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. A future challenge is to raise clinical awareness and optimize research knowledge, assessment, and intervention in personality disorders among homeless individuals with comorbid psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Henriques-Calado
- Centro de Investigação em Ciência Psicológica (CICPSI), Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Gama Marques
- Centro de Investigação em Ciência Psicológica (CICPSI), Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Consulta de Esquizofrenia Resistente, Hospital Júlio de Matos (HJM), Unidade Local de Saúde São José (ULSSJ), Centro Clínico Académico de Lisboa (CCAL), Lisboa, Portugal
- Clínica Universitária de Psiquiatra e Psicologia Médica (CUPPM), Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa (FMUL), Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa (CAML), Lisboa, Portugal
- Homeless Outreach Psychiatric Engagement for Lisboa (HOPE 4 Lisboa), Santé Mentale et Exclusion Sociale (SMES) Europa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Rathod SD, Annand PJ, Hosseini P, Guise A, Platt L. Epidemiological features of depression and anxiety among homeless adults with healthcare access problems in London, UK: descriptive cross-sectional analysis. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e93. [PMID: 38686447 PMCID: PMC11060085 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2024.34] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In England in 2021, an estimated 274 000 people were homeless on a given night. It has long been recognised that physical and mental health of people who are homeless is poorer than for people who are housed. There are few peer-reviewed studies to inform health and social care for depression or anxiety among homeless adults in this setting. AIMS To measure the symptoms of depression and anxiety among adults who are homeless and who have difficulty accessing healthcare, and to describe distribution of symptoms across sociodemographic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics. METHOD We completed structured questionnaires with 311 adults who were homeless and who had difficulty accessing healthcare in London, UK, between August and December 2021. We measured anxiety and depression symptoms using the 4-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) score. We compared median PHQ-4 scores across strata of the sociodemographic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics, and tested for associations using the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS The median PHQ-4 score was 8 out of 12, and 40.2% had scores suggesting high clinical need. Although PHQ-4 scores were consistently high across a range of socioeconomic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics, they were positively associated with: young age; food insecurity; recent and historic abuse; joint, bone or muscle problems; and frequency of marijuana use. The most common (60%) barrier to accessing healthcare related to transportation. CONCLUSIONS Adults who are homeless and have difficulty accessing healthcare have high levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. Our findings support consideration of population-level, multisectoral intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujit D. Rathod
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - P. J. Annand
- Department of Sociology, University of Surrey, UK
| | - Paniz Hosseini
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Guise
- Department of Population Health Sciences, King's College London, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Ralevski A, Taiyab N, Nossal M, Mico L, Piekos SN, Hadlock J. Using Large Language Models to Annotate Complex Cases of Social Determinants of Health in Longitudinal Clinical Records. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.04.25.24306380. [PMID: 38712224 PMCID: PMC11071574 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.25.24306380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) are an important part of the exposome and are known to have a large impact on variation in health outcomes. In particular, housing stability is known to be intricately linked to a patient's health status, and pregnant women experiencing housing instability (HI) are known to have worse health outcomes. Most SDoH information is stored in electronic health records (EHRs) as free text (unstructured) clinical notes, which traditionally required natural language processing (NLP) for automatic identification of relevant text or keywords. A patient's housing status can be ambiguous or subjective, and can change from note to note or within the same note, making it difficult to use existing NLP solutions. New developments in NLP allow researchers to prompt LLMs to perform complex, subjective annotation tasks that require reasoning that previously could only be attempted by human annotators. For example, large language models (LLMs) such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) enable researchers to analyze complex, unstructured data using simple prompts. We used a secure platform within a large healthcare system to compare the ability of GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 to identify instances of both current and past housing instability, as well as general housing status, from 25,217 notes from 795 pregnant women. Results from these LLMs were compared with results from manual annotation, a named entity recognition (NER) model, and regular expressions (RegEx). We developed a chain-of-thought prompt requiring evidence and justification for each note from the LLMs, to help maximize the chances of finding relevant text related to HI while minimizing hallucinations and false positives. Compared with GPT-3.5 and the NER model, GPT-4 had the highest performance and had a much higher recall (0.924) than human annotators (0.702) in identifying patients experiencing current or past housing instability, although precision was lower (0.850) compared with human annotators (0.971). In most cases, the evidence output by GPT-4 was similar or identical to that of human annotators, and there was no evidence of hallucinations in any of the outputs from GPT-4. Most cases where the annotators and GPT-4 differed were ambiguous or subjective, such as "living in an apartment with too many people". We also looked at GPT-4 performance on de-identified versions of the same notes and found that precision improved slightly (0.936 original, 0.939 de-identified), while recall dropped (0.781 original, 0.704 de-identified). This work demonstrates that, while manual annotation is likely to yield slightly more accurate results overall, LLMs, when compared with manual annotation, provide a scalable, cost-effective solution with the advantage of greater recall. At the same time, further evaluation is needed to address the risk of missed cases and bias in the initial selection of housing-related notes. Additionally, while it was possible to reduce confabulation, signs of unusual justifications remained. Given these factors, together with changes in both LLMs and charting over time, this approach is not yet appropriate for use as a fully-automated process. However, these results demonstrate the potential for using LLMs for computer-assisted annotation with human review, reducing cost and increasing recall. More efficient methods for obtaining structured SDoH data can help accelerate inclusion of exposome variables in biomedical research, and support healthcare systems in identifying patients who could benefit from proactive outreach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadaa Taiyab
- Tegria, 1255 Fourier Dr Ste 101, Madison, WI, 53717, USA
| | - Michael Nossal
- Providence St Joseph Health, 1801 Lind Ave SW Renton, WA, 98057, USA
| | - Lindsay Mico
- Providence St Joseph Health, 1801 Lind Ave SW Renton, WA, 98057, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Hadlock
- Institute for Systems Biology, 401 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- University of Washington, Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, Seattle, WA, USA
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Vázquez JJ, Lenta M, Cabrera A, Panadero S. The Role of Childhood Violence in Adult Victimization Among Women Experiencing Homelessness in Spain. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024:8862605241245381. [PMID: 38591170 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241245381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Persons experiencing homelessness represent one of the principal manifestations of the phenomenon of social exclusion, with homeless women constituting a group in a particularly vulnerable situation. The article analyzed the experience of violence in childhood and adolescence, and its implications in terms of violence experienced as an adult, in a sample of women experiencing homelessness in Madrid (Spain) (n = 138). All participants were of legal age and had spent the night before the interview in a shelter or other facility for the homeless, on the street, in public spaces or in places not suitable for sleeping. Information was gathered through a structured interview. The results show that the interviewees had experienced a high percentage of physical, psychological, and/or sexual violence, both in their childhood and adolescence and throughout their lives, with a strong correlation between the experience of violence in childhood and the experience of violence in adulthood, particularly sexual assaults, intimate partner violence, and sex work. The experience of childhood sexual abuse among women experiencing homelessness appears to have had particularly negative consequences in adulthood. Public policies, prevention programs, and care mechanisms with a gendered perspective must be implemented, aimed at reducing the number and intensity of situations of violence experienced by women and girls at risk of social exclusion or in a homeless situation.
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Grewal A, Hepburn KJ, Lear SA, Adshade M, Card KG. The impact of housing prices on residents' health: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:931. [PMID: 38561729 PMCID: PMC10983630 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18360-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rising housing prices are becoming a top public health priority and are an emerging concern for policy makers and community leaders. This report reviews and synthesizes evidence examining the association between changes in housing price and health outcomes. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review by searching the SCOPUS and PubMed databases for keywords related to housing price and health. Articles were screened by two reviewers for eligibility, which restricted inclusion to original research articles measuring changes in housing prices and health outcomes, published prior to June 31st, 2022. RESULTS Among 23 eligible studies, we found that changes in housing prices were heterogeneously associated with physical and mental health outcomes, with multiple mechanisms contributing to both positive and negative health outcomes. Income-level and home-ownership status were identified as key moderators, with lower-income individuals and renters experience negative health consequences from rising housing prices. This may have resulted from increased stress and financial strain among these groups. Meanwhile, the economic benefits of rising housing prices were seen to support health for higher-income individuals and homeowners - potentially due to increased wealth or perception of wealth. CONCLUSIONS Based on the associations identified in this review, it appears that potential gains to health associated with rising housing prices are inequitably distributed. Housing policies should consider the health inequities born by renters and low-income individuals. Further research should explore mechanisms and interventions to reduce uneven economic impacts on health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashmita Grewal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, 8888 University Dr. , Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Kirk J Hepburn
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, 8888 University Dr. , Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Scott A Lear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, 8888 University Dr. , Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Marina Adshade
- Vancouver School of Economics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kiffer G Card
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, 8888 University Dr. , Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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Zhu Q, Li N, Ding Y, Zhang Z, Jiang W, Jiang T, Qiao Q, Qian Y, Cheng H. Incidence of Adjacent Segment Degeneration and Its Associated Risk Factors Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Meta-Analysis. World Neurosurg 2024; 183:e153-e172. [PMID: 38103684 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.12.050] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the incidence of adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) and its associated risk factors in adults after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery. METHODS An exhaustive search across multiple databases was conducted, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science, to identify pertinent studies. We collected such patient data as demographic variables (including age, gender, body mass index), cervical spondylosis type (such as radiculopathy and myelopathy), diabetes status, smoking and drinking history, and radiological risk factors (such as preoperative ASD status, developmental spinal stenosis, T1 slope, and postoperative less cervical lordosis). Incidence estimates were calculated based on relevant data. Risk factors were assessed using odds ratios and weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Our analysis incorporated a total of 21 studies for incidence analysis. The overall incidence of CASD following ACDF was found to be 11% and radiographical ASD was 30%. Old age (weighted mean difference = 3.21; 95% CI: 0.06, 6.36; P = 0.05), preoperative ASD status (odds ratio = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.53, 4.60; P < 0.01), developmental spinal stenosis (odds ratio = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.61, 3.77; P < 0.01), and postoperative reduction in cervical lordosis were identified as significant risk factors for the occurrence of CASD. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of CASD following ACDF was 11%. Risk factors for CASD included old age, preoperative adjacent segment degeneration, developmental spinal stenosis, and postoperative reduction in cervical lordosis. These findings provide valuable insights for the assessment of adjacent segment disease risk after ACDF, aiding surgeons in diagnosis and treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianmiao Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zifeng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenkang Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiujiang Qiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuhang Qian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huilin Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Gajos JM, Oliver JA, Hébert ET, Walters ST, Businelle MS. Does the Relationship between Affect and Social Interactions among Adults Experiencing Homelessness Differ during Moments when at a Shelter versus Not? MENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE 2024; 2:85-90. [PMID: 38827497 PMCID: PMC11142463 DOI: 10.1002/mhs2.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of alcohol use disorders is higher amongst adults experiencing homelessness (AEH) compared with domiciled adults. Greater exposure to heavy drinkers increases personal risk for heavy alcohol use. AEH spend substantial periods of time at shelters and report greater pressure to use alcohol when near shelter locations, as well as greater negative affect when near a shelter. It is unclear if the relationship between affect and 1) interacting with people and 2) being near someone AEH drank alcohol with before differs when AEH are at a shelter versus not. AEH reporting alcohol misuse (n = 72, Mage= 47, 85% Male, 68% Non-White) completed five daily smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) over 28 days. Generalized multilevel modeling revealed that when AEH were interacting with someone they drank with before, they had significantly lower positive affect when at a shelter (b = -0.17, p = 0.05), versus when not (b = 0.00, p = 0.99). AEH are likely to interact with previous drinking partners while at shelters. It may be important to deliver real-time treatment messages targeting affect in these moments, as well as deliver alcohol reduction/abstinence messages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M. Gajos
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jason A. Oliver
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, OK, USA
| | - Emily T. Hébert
- University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Scott T. Walters
- University of North Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health, Ft. Worth, TX, USA
| | - Michael S. Businelle
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, OK, USA
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Mudiganti S, Nasrallah C, Brown S, Pressman A, Kiger A, Casey JA, LaMori JC, Pesa J, Azar KMJ. Homelessness Among Acute Care Patients Within a Large Health Care System in Northern California. Popul Health Manag 2024; 27:13-25. [PMID: 38236711 DOI: 10.1089/pop.2023.0190] [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: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The impacts of homelessness on health and health care access are detrimental. Intervention and efforts to improve outcomes and increase availability of affordable housing have mainly originated from the public health sector and government. The role that large community-based health systems may play has yet to be established. This study characterizes patients self-identified as homeless in acute care facilities in a large integrated health care system in Northern California to inform the development of collaborative interventions addressing unmet needs of this vulnerable population. The authors compared sociodemographic characteristics, clinical conditions, and health care utilization of individuals who did and did not self-identify as homeless and characterized their geographical distribution in relation to Sutter hospitals and homeless resources. Between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020, 5% (N = 20,259) of the acute care settings patients had evidence of homelessness, among which 51.1% age <45 years, 66.4% males, and 24% non-Hispanic Black. Patients experiencing homelessness had higher emergency department utilization and lower utilization of outpatient and urgent care services. Mental health conditions were more common among patients experiencing homelessness. More than half of the hospitals had >5% of patients who identified as homeless. Some hospitals with higher proportions of patients experiencing homelessness are not located near many shelter resources. By understanding patients who self-identify as homeless, it is possible to assess the role of the health system in addressing their unmet needs. Accurate identification is the first step for the health systems to develop and deliver better solutions through collaborations with nonprofit organizations, community partners, and government agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Mudiganti
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Catherine Nasrallah
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical Department, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Brown
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Alice Pressman
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Anna Kiger
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Joan A Casey
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Joyce C LaMori
- Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jacqueline Pesa
- Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Kristen M J Azar
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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14
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Su KY, Feldman BJ, Feldman CT, Saluja S, Coulourides Kogan AM, Cousineau MR. Behavioral Health Care Delivery Through Street Medicine Programs in California. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:283-291. [PMID: 37526807 PMCID: PMC10822007 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01169-z] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Mental health and substance use disorders are prevalent among people experiencing homelessness. Street Medicine can reach unhoused people who face barriers to accessing healthcare in more traditional medical settings including shelter-based clinics. However, there is little guidance on best practices for mental health and substance use treatment through Street Medicine. The aim of the study was to describe behavioral health care through Street Medicine by analyzing data from the California Street Medicine Landscape survey and follow-up qualitative interviews. Most street medicine programs utilize non-psychiatrists to diagnose and treat mental health and substance use disorders, though the capacity to provide the level of care needed varies. There is a lack of street-based psychiatric clinicians and programs have difficulty making referrals to mental health and addiction services. This report shows that Street Medicine could serve as a strategy to expand access to behavioral health care for the unhoused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Y Su
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | | | | | - Sonali Saluja
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Birhanu MY, Bekele GM, Yirdaw G, Demissie BS, Getahun GK, Jemberie SS. Incidence and predictors of loss to follow-up among Ethiopian children on antiretroviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:169. [PMID: 38218779 PMCID: PMC10787475 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17333-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Loss of follow-up (LTFU) from ART regular follow-up is one of the key acknowledged causes for the development of ART-resistant virus strains currently. It becomes a major weakness for the successful implementation of HIV care and treatment programs mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa but also globally. About 20-40% of children on ART loss their regular ART follow-up annually. Because of the inconsistency of the prior publications' findings, policymakers, programmers, and healthcare providers find it difficult to intervene. Hence, this study was conducted to provide a pooled incidence and identify the predictors of LTFU among children on ART in Ethiopia. METHODS Articles were searched from PubMed/ MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, as well as organizational records and websites. This review included both retrospective and prospective follow-up studies published in English. The data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and exported into Stata™ Version 17.0 for further processing and analysis. The presence of heterogeneity was assessed using forest plots with the I2 test. To identify the source of heterogeneity subgroup analysis, meta-regression, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis were computed. The pooled incidence of LTFU was estimated using a random effects meta-analysis model with the DerSimonian-laired method. To identify the predictors, a 95% confidence interval with relative risk was used to declare the presence or absence of an association. RESULTS In this systematic review and Meta-analysis, nine studies with a total of 3336 children were included. The pooled incidence of LTFU from ART was 5.83 (95% CI: 3.94, 7.72) per 100 children-years of observation with I2: 83% & p-value < 0.001. Those children who were from rural were had a 1.65 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.52) times higher chance of getting LTFU when compared with their counterparts. Children who had poor ART adherence had a 2.03 (95% CI: 1.23, 3.34) times higher chance of experiencing LTFU of ART than children having good ART adherence. CONCLUSIONS Among Ethiopian children on ART, one out of 167 had the risk of experiencing LTFU. Being rural dwellers and having poor ART adherence were the identified predictors of LTFU. Close follow-up and phone message text should be used to have good ART adherence among rural dwellers to meet the predetermined goal of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molla Yigzaw Birhanu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O. Box 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
| | - Getamesay Molla Bekele
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetric, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Getasew Yirdaw
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Bekele Simegn Demissie
- Department of Public Health, St.Lideta College of Health Science and Business, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Genanew Kassie Getahun
- Department of Public Health, Menelik II Medical and Health Science College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Selamawit Shita Jemberie
- Department of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Hird R, Radhakrishnan R, Tsai J. A systematic review of approaches to improve medication adherence in homeless adults with psychiatric disorders. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1339801. [PMID: 38260790 PMCID: PMC10800888 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1339801] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Medication non-adherence is a significant problem among homeless individuals with psychiatric disorders in the United States. We conducted a systematic review to identify strategies to improve psychiatric medication adherence among homeless individuals with psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders. Methods We searched seven databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, Web of Science, CDSR, and CENTRAL) and screened 664 studies by title and abstract followed by full-text review. Our inclusion criteria were studies that: involved an intervention for homeless adults with psychiatric disorders, reported a quantitative outcome of medication adherence, and were published in English in a peer-reviewed journal. We rated the relative effectiveness of strategies described in each study using a self-designed scale. Results Eleven peer-reviewed studies met criteria for inclusion in this review. Within these studies, there were seven different approaches to improve medication adherence in this population. Three studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the remaining were observational studies. Outpatient interventions included Assertive Community Treatment, Cell Phone-Assisted Monitoring, Customized Adherence Enhancement plus Long-Acting Injectable Medications, and Homeless-Designated Pharmacy Clinics. Residential, shelter-based, and inpatient interventions included use of the Housing First model, Modified Therapeutic Communities, and Homeless-Designated Inpatient Care. The approaches described in four of the eleven studies were rated as scoring a 3 or higher on a 5-point scale of effectiveness in improving medication adherence; none received 5 points. Discussion The interventions with the strongest evidence for improving medication adherence in this population were Assertive Community Treatment, Customized Adherence Enhancement plus Long-Acting Injectable Medications, and Housing First. Overall, studies on this topic required more rigor and focus on medication adherence as an outcome in this population. This review highlights several promising strategies and the need for larger RCTs to determine effective and diverse ways to improve medication adherence among homeless adults with psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Hird
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rajiv Radhakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jack Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, Washington, DC, United States
- School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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17
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Roy R, Raman KJ, Raj EA, Varambally S. Outcomes of psychosocial interventions for homeless individuals with mental illness: A systematic review. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2024:207640231217173. [PMID: 38174711 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231217173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness creates a significant social and economic burden in the society. Homelessness and mental illness are two interconnected social issues that poses challenges to individuals and communities across the globe. This systematic review aims to synthesize the existing literature on interventions for the homeless persons with mental illness. OBJECTIVES To systematically review the existing literature on psychosocial interventions for homeless persons with mental illness. SEARCH METHODS Five databases including PubMed, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, OVID, and Google Scholar were searched using homelessness, psychosocial interventions, mental ill, residential mental health facility, and case management for experimental studies published from January 2000 to December 2022. STUDY SELECTION Abstract review was conducted for the screened studies, and full-text review was done for studies which met inclusion exclusion criteria. DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Among the 6,387 studies screened 20 studies were selected which fulfilled inclusion criteria. The full text review yielded data of 12,174 homeless persons with mental illness who undergone intervention. RESULTS The major psychosocial interventions found including critical time intervention, case management, housing support intervention, assertive community treatment, and life skills training. These interventions were helpful in sustaining housing stability, preventing relapse, reducing hospitalizations, and improving quality of life of the homeless persons with mental illness. CONCLUSION Targeted and integrated interventions addressing homelessness and mental illness are required to tackle the social problems of homelessness and mental illness. Further research is required to explore the most effective strategies that address homelessness and mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roniyamol Roy
- Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - K Janaki Raman
- Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - E Aravind Raj
- Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Shivarama Varambally
- Depatment of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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18
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Hircock C, Huan P, Pizzola C, McDonald M. A scoping review of surgical care for people experiencing homelessness: prevalence, access, and disparities. Can J Surg 2024; 67:E27-E39. [PMID: 38278550 PMCID: PMC10824397 DOI: 10.1503/cjs.004023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have highlighted the inequitable access to medical and psychiatric care that people experiencing homelessness (PEH) face, yet the surgical needs of this population are not well understood. We sought to assess evidence describing surgical care for PEH and to perform a thematic analysis of the results. METHODS Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science were searched using the terms "surgery" AND "homelessness." Grey literature was also searched. We used a stepwise scoping review methodology, followed by thematic analysis using an inductive approach. RESULTS We included 104 articles in our review. Studies were included from 5 continents; 63% originated in the United States. All surgical specialties were represented with varying surgical conditions and procedures for each. Orthopedic surgery (21%) was the most frequently reported specialty. Themes identified included characteristics of PEH receiving surgical care, homeless-to-housed participants, interaction with the health care system, educational initiatives, barriers and challenges, and interventions and future strategies. CONCLUSION We identified significant variation and gaps, representing opportunities for further research and interventions. Further addressing the barriers and challenges that PEH face when accessing surgical care can better address the needs of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Hircock
- From the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (Hircock, Huan); the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont. (McDonald); and the Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (McDonald).
| | - Peter Huan
- From the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (Hircock, Huan); the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont. (McDonald); and the Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (McDonald)
| | - Christina Pizzola
- From the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (Hircock, Huan); the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont. (McDonald); and the Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (McDonald)
| | - Madeline McDonald
- From the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (Hircock, Huan); the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont. (McDonald); and the Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont. (McDonald)
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Brown L, Rishel Brakey H, Page K. Voices of the unhoused from Santa Fe, New Mexico: A mixed methods study of health status, substance use, and community harm reduction program perspectives. J Prev Interv Community 2024; 52:73-97. [PMID: 38757899 DOI: 10.1080/10852352.2024.2352266] [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: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
No published studies have examined the community service priorities and harm reduction perspectives of unhoused people in Santa Fe, New Mexico. We conducted a mixed methods pilot study of 56 unhoused people at community locations in Santa Fe to: (1) assess the current prevalence of chronic medical conditions and substance use; (2) highlight community service priorities; and (3) explore views of innovative community harm reduction programs. Our first hypothesis was there would be high prevalence of chronic medical conditions, for which we found high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, substance use disorders, chronic pain, and hypertension. Our second hypothesis was that we would find top community service priorities of housing, food, and health care. We found long- and short-term housing and food, but not healthcare, top priorities. Our third hypothesis was that we would find mixed support for community harm reduction initiatives like managed alcohol programs and overdose prevention centers. We found positive, not mixed, support for these community harm reduction programs among Santa Fe's unhoused. Unhoused study participants ranged in age 27-77 years, with lifetime years unhoused from less than one year to 63 years. Study limitations included small sample size, convenience sampling, and descriptive results. Policies and program initiatives supporting additional Housing First options, managed alcohol programs, and overdose prevention centers in the Santa Fe community are clearly indicated to increase engagement with this vulnerable population. Future research should focus on inclusion of the perspectives of the unhoused in the design, conduct, evaluation, and dissemination of community programs to meet the needs of the unhoused, with re-defined outcomes to include changes in quality of life, program engagement, demarginalization, and future goals and plans, beyond currently utilized health and social service program outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Brown
- Center for Alcohol, Substance Use, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Heidi Rishel Brakey
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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Srinivasan I, Sahayam D B. "Homeless Life to Hopeful Life of Elderly Beggars"-: Before and After Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Approach. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2024; 10:23337214231222738. [PMID: 38204921 PMCID: PMC10777780 DOI: 10.1177/23337214231222738] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study explores the experiences of elderly beggars who transitioned from a life of homelessness to a hopeful life through rehabilitation programs. The aim is to gain insights into their lived experiences, challenges faced during their homeless phase, and the transformative effects of rehabilitation interventions. The study employs Case study approach applying thematic analysis to capture the narratives of elderly individuals who have undergone rehabilitation. The data was collected directly from the elderly using purposive sampling method. The in-depth interview guide was used to collect data from 30 elderly people in Atchayam Beggars Rehabilitation centre at Erode. From the findings, it was clear that homeless phase is characterized by extreme poverty, social exclusion, health issues, and a lack of basic necessities. The elderly beggars face numerous challenges, including stigma, discrimination, and a sense of hopelessness. The study documents the transformative journey of the elderly beggars, highlighting the positive changes they experience after rehabilitation. These changes include improved physical and mental well-being, restored self-esteem, regained social connections, and the acquisition of new skills. The elderly experience a renewed sense of hope, dignity, and empowerment as they move from vulnerability to independence and self-sufficiency. The study also highlights the significance of destigmatization efforts and community involvement in fostering the successful reintegration of elderly beggars into society. The study also contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the possibilities for positive change and the journey from homeless life to a hopeful life among this vulnerable population.
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Birhanu MY, Bekele GM, Leshargie CT, Jemberie SS. National estimate and associated factors of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF OPTOMETRY 2024; 17:100480. [PMID: 37976882 PMCID: PMC10692897 DOI: 10.1016/j.optom.2023.100480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myopia is a global public health concern that has a significant socioeconomic and psychological impact on schoolchildren. If Myopic patients are not detected early, they are exposed to retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma. There have been previous studies conducted in Ethiopia, but there is significant inconsistency among studies. Hence, the aim of this study was to provide a single figure as well as associated factors for Myopia among Ethiopian schoolchildren. METHOD The national and international databases and gray literature were searched for important research articles. This review included school-based cross-sectional studies that were reported in English. The data were extracted using Microsoft word and exported to Stata™ Version 17.0 statistical software for further management and analysis .The presence of heterogeneity was checked using Cochrane Q test via fixed effects model and presented by forest plots with 95% CI. Due to the presence of substantial heterogeneity, I2 test using random effects model was computed to estimate the effect size. The existing heterogeneity among studies was explained by regional difference. To identify factors associated with myopia, meta regression was computed and significant factors was reported using OR with 95% CI. RESULTS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, 12 studies with a total of 9688 schoolchildren were included. The national estimate of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia was 6.49% (95%CI: 4.86, 8.12). Having family history of myopia (OR: 9.18, 95%CI: 3.5,24.02) and being female (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.50, 0.98) were the identified factors associated with myopia. CONCLUSION Myopia is one of the most prevalent childhood health condition in Ethiopia, which affects about one in every fourteen schoolchildren. Schoolchildren who had family history of myopia and being female were the identified risk factors of myopia among schoolchildren. Clinical and public engagement activities are needed to address the burden of myopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molla Yigzaw Birhanu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos university, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
| | - Getamesay Molla Bekele
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetric, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Cheru Tesema Leshargie
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos university, Debre Markos, Ethiopia; Department of Public health, School of Health Sciences, University of Technology Science, Sydney, Australia
| | - Selamawit Shita Jemberie
- Department of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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De Prophetis E, Beck K, Ridgeway D, Chuang J, Richard L, Durbin A, Mazereeuw M, Hynes G, Denny K. Trends in hospital coding for people experiencing homelessness in Canada, 2015-2020: a descriptive study. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E1188-E1196. [PMID: 38114261 PMCID: PMC10743647 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20230044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2018, hospitals were mandated to record homelessness using International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision, Canada (ICD-10-CA code Z59.0). We sought to answer whether the coding mandate affected the volume of patients identified as experiencing homelessness in acute inpatient hospitalizations and if there was any geographic variation. METHODS We conducted a serial cross-sectional study describing 6 fiscal years (2015/16 to 2020/21) of hospital administrative data from the Hospital Morbidity Database. We reported frequencies and percentages of hospitalizations with a Z59.0 diagnostic code and disaggregated by several types of Canadian geographies. Controlling for fiscal quarter (coded Q1 to Q4) and province or territory, adjusted logistic regression models quantified the odds of Z59.0 being coded during hospital stays. RESULTS The frequency and percentage of people experiencing homelessness in hospitalization records across Canada increased from 6934 (0.12%) in 2015/16 to 21 529 (0.41%) in 2020/21. Trends varied by province and territory. Recording of the Z59.0 code increased following the mandate (adjusted odds ratio 2.29, 95% confidence interval 2.25-2.32), relative to the pre-mandate period. INTERPRETATION The 2018 coding mandate coincided with an increase in the use of the Z59.0 code to document homelessness in health care administrative data; however, trends varied by jurisdiction. The ICD-10-CA code Z59.0 presents a promising opportunity for standardized and routinely collected data to identify people experiencing homelessness in hospital administrative data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric De Prophetis
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont.
| | - Kinsey Beck
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Diana Ridgeway
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Junior Chuang
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Lucie Richard
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Anna Durbin
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Maegan Mazereeuw
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Geoff Hynes
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | - Keith Denny
- Canadian Institute for Health Information (De Prophetis, Beck, Ridgeway, Chuang, Mazereeuw, Hynes, Denny), Ottawa, Ont.; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Richard, Durbin), Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ont
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23
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Novak MD, Toegel F, Holtyn AF, Rodewald AM, Arellano M, Baranski M, Barnett NP, Leoutsakos JM, Fingerhood M, Silverman K. Abstinence-contingent wage supplements for adults experiencing homelessness and alcohol use disorder: A randomized clinical trial. Prev Med 2023; 176:107655. [PMID: 37541600 PMCID: PMC10837308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2023.107655] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effectiveness of abstinence-contingent wage supplements in promoting alcohol abstinence and employment in adults experiencing homelessness and alcohol use disorder. A randomized clinical trial was conducted from 2019 to 2022. After a 1-month Induction period, 119 participants were randomly assigned to a Usual Care Control group (n = 57) or an Abstinence-Contingent Wage Supplement group (n = 62). Usual Care participants were offered counseling and referrals to employment and treatment programs. Abstinence-Contingent Wage Supplement participants could earn stipends for working with an employment specialist and wage supplements for working in a community job but had to maintain abstinence from alcohol as determined by transdermal alcohol concentration monitoring devices to maximize pay. Abstinence-Contingent Wage Supplement participants reported significantly higher rates of alcohol abstinence than Usual Care participants during the 6-month intervention (82.8% vs. 60.2% of months, OR = 3.4, 95% CI 1.8 to 6.3, p < .001). Abstinence-Contingent Wage Supplement participants were also significantly more likely to obtain employment (51.3% vs. 31.6% of months, OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.5 to 4.4, p < .001) and live out of poverty (38.2% vs. 16.7% of months, OR = 3.7, 95% CI 2.0 to 7.1, p < .001) than Usual Care participants. These findings suggest that Abstinence-Contingent Wage Supplements can promote alcohol abstinence and employment in adults experiencing homelessness and alcohol use disorder. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03519009.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Novak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Forrest Toegel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Psychological Science, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI, United States
| | - August F Holtyn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrew M Rodewald
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Meghan Arellano
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mackenzie Baranski
- Department of Psychological Science, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI, United States
| | - Nancy P Barnett
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Jeannie-Marie Leoutsakos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael Fingerhood
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kenneth Silverman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Learning and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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Komaromy M, Stone A, Peterson A, Gott J, Koenig R, Taylor JL. Facilitating exit from encampments: combining low-barrier transitional housing with stabilizing treatment for substance related problems. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:66. [PMID: 37884986 PMCID: PMC10601141 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tent encampments in the neighborhood surrounding Boston Medical Center (BMC) grew to include 336 individuals at points between 2019 and 21, prompting public health concerns. BMC, the City of Boston, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts partnered in 2/2022 to offer low-barrier transitional housing to encampment residents and provide co-located clinical stabilization services for community members with substance use disorders (SUDs) experiencing homelessness. METHODS To meet the needs of some of the people who had been living in encampments, BMC established in a former hotel: 60 beds of transitional housing, not contingent upon sobriety; and a low-barrier SUD-focused clinic for both housing residents and community members, offering walk-in urgent care, SUD medications, and infection screening/prevention; and a 24/7 short-stay stabilization unit to manage over-intoxication, withdrawal, and complications of substance use (e.g., abscesses, HIV risk, psychosis). A secure medication-dispensing cabinet allows methadone administration for withdrawal management. Housing program key metrics include retention in housing, transition to permanent housing, and engagement in SUD treatment and case management. Clinical program key metrics include patient volume, and rates of initiation of medication for opioid use disorder. RESULTS Housing: Between 2/1/22-1/31/2023, 100 people entered the low-barrier transitional housing (new residents admitted as people transitioned out); 50 former encampment residents and 50 unhoused people referred by Boston Public Health Commission. Twenty-five residents transferred to permanent housing, eight administratively discharged, four incarcerated, and four died (two overdoses, two other substance-related). The remaining 59 residents remain housed; none voluntarily returned to homelessness. One hundred residents (100%) engaged with case management, and 49 engaged with SUD treatment. CLINICAL In the first 12 months, 1722 patients (drawn from both the housing program and community) had 7468 clinical visits. The most common SUDs were opioid (84%), cocaine (54%) and alcohol (47%) and 61% of patients had a co-occurring mental health diagnosis in the preceding 24-months. 566 (33%) patients were started on methadone and accepted at an Opioid Treatment Program (OTP). CONCLUSIONS During the 1st year of operation, low-barrier transitional housing plus clinical stabilization care was a feasible and acceptable model for former encampment residents, 49% of whom engaged with SUD treatment, and 25% of whom transitioned to permanent housing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Komaromy
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Boston University, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Andrea Stone
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jessica L Taylor
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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25
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Birhanu MY, Jemberie SS. Mortality rate and predictors of COVID-19 inpatients in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1213077. [PMID: 37928474 PMCID: PMC10624109 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1213077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an extremely rare virus that devastates the economy and claims human lives. Despite countries' urgent and tenacious public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, the disease is killing a large number of people. The results of prior studies have not been used by policymakers and programmers due to the presence of conflicting results. As a result, this study was conducted to fill the knowledge gap and develop a research agenda. Objective This study aimed to assess the mortality rate and predictors of COVID-19 hospitalized patients in Ethiopia. Methods Electronic databases were searched to find articles that were conducted using a retrospective cohort study design and published in English up to 2022. The data were extracted using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to StataTM version 17.0 for further analysis. The presence of heterogeneity was assessed and presented using a forest plot. The subgroup analysis, meta-regression, and publication bias were computed to identify the source of heterogeneity. The pool COVID-19 mortality rate and its predictors were calculated and identified using the random effects meta-analysis model, respectively. The significant predictors identified were reported using a relative risk ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Seven studies with 31,498 participants were included. The pooled mortality rate of COVID-19 was 9.13 (95% CI: 5.38, 12.88) per 1,000 person-days of mortality-free observation. Those study participants who had chronic kidney disease had 2.29 (95% CI: 1.14, 4.60) times higher chance of experiencing mortality than their corresponding counterparts, diabetics had 2.14 (95% CI: 1.22, 3.76), HIV patients had 2.98 (95% CI: 1.26, 7.03), hypertensive patients had 1.63 (95% CI: 1.43, 1.85), and smoker had 2.35 (95% CI: 1.48, 3.73). Conclusion COVID-19 mortality rate was high to tackle the epidemic of the disease in Ethiopia. COVID-19 patients with chronic renal disease, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and HIV were the significant predictors of mortality among COVID-19 patients in Ethiopia. COVID-19 patients with chronic diseases and comorbidities need special attention, close follow-up, and care from all stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molla Yigzaw Birhanu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Selamawit Shita Jemberie
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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26
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Gebremeskel L, Teklu T, Kasahun GG, Tuem KB. Antimicrobial resistance pattern of Klebsiella isolated from various clinical samples in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:643. [PMID: 37784058 PMCID: PMC10544621 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08633-x] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of Klebsiella drug resistance to antimicrobials is a major public health concern worldwide; particularly the problem is severe in developing countries including Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to establish the pooled estimate of Klebsiella drug resistance; and antimicrobial-specific resistance pattern among Klebsiella clinical isoaltes in Ethiopia. METHODS Articles were searched from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science direct and grey literature from 2009 to 2019. Four authors have independently extracted data on the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance pattern of the isolates. Statistical analysis was conducted by using Open meta-analyst (version 3.13) and Comprehensive meta-analysis (version 3.3). The main outcome measures were the overall Klebsiella resistance; and drug-specific resistance patterns. A random-effects model was used to determine the pooled resistance prevalence with 95% confidence interval (CI), and significant heterogeneity was considered at p < 0.1; and I2 > 50% using DerSimonian and Laird method. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted to improve the outcome. RESULT We obtained 174 potentially relevant studies through searching electronic databases, and finally, 35 eligible studies were included for meta-analysis. A total of 13,269 study samples participated, from which 1017 Klebsiella species were isolated. The overall Klebsiella resistance in Ethiopia was found to stand at 53.75% (95% CI: 48.35-58.94%). Based on the subgroup analyses; the highest (64.39%); and lowest (46.16%) values were seen in Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples of Ethiopia; and Tigray regions respectively; and the highest Klebsiella resistance was reported to ampicillin (90.56%), followed by amoxicillin (76.01%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (66.91%). A relatively low level of resistance rate was observed to amikacin (16.74%) and cefoxitin (29.73%). CONCLUSION The pooled Klebsiella resistance was found to be considerably high (53.75%) to most of the essential antibiotics in Ethiopia. Klebsiella was highly resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin but relatively lower to amikacin. Therefore, appropriate interventional strategies need to be taken to address the emerging resistance of Klebsiella species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leake Gebremeskel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Tewolde Teklu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of health sciences, Aksum University, Aksum, Ethiopia
| | | | - Kald Beshir Tuem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
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27
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Padwa H, Henwood BF, Ijadi-Maghsoodi R, Tran-Smith B, Darby A, Bluthenthal R, Chinchilla M, Vickery KD, Kuhn R, Lawton A, Fenderson E, Galarza E, Haynes A, King D, Martiniuk E, Marshall P, Mendoza S, Patton T, Shaw S, Stevens R, Gelberg L. Bringing Lived Experience to Research on Health and Homelessness: Perspectives of Researchers and Lived Experience Partners. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:1235-1242. [PMID: 37204566 PMCID: PMC10198013 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01138-6] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Improving health and healthcare for people experiencing homelessness (PEH) has become a national research priority. It is critical for research related to homelessness to be guided by input from PEH themselves. We are a group of researchers and individuals who have personally experienced homelessness collaborating on a study focused on homelessness and housing. In this Fresh Focus, we describe our partnership, lessons learned from our work together, what we have gained from our collaboration, and considerations for future homelessness research-lived experience partnerships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Padwa
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 10911 Weyburn Avenue, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA.
| | - Benjamin F Henwood
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, 669 West 34th Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Roya Ijadi-Maghsoodi
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 10911 Weyburn Avenue, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA
| | - Bikki Tran-Smith
- Department of Biomedical & Health Sciences, University of Vermont, 149 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Anna Darby
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 924 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Ricky Bluthenthal
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Melissa Chinchilla
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA
| | - Katherine Diaz Vickery
- Health, Homelessness, & Criminal Justice Lab, Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, 825 8th St S., Minneapolis, MN, 55404, USA
| | - Randall Kuhn
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Alexander Lawton
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | | | | | - Anthony Haynes
- Skid Row Housing Trust, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Corporation for Supportive Housing, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dennis King
- Skid Row Housing Trust, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Corporation for Supportive Housing, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Suzette Shaw
- National Alliance to End Homelessness, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Los Angeles County Continuum of Care Board, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Reba Stevens
- Los Angeles County Continuum of Care Board, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Los Angeles County Mental Health Commission, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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28
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Heston TF. The Cost of Living Index as a Primary Driver of Homelessness in the United States: A Cross-State Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e46975. [PMID: 37841988 PMCID: PMC10574586 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness persists as a critical global issue despite myriad interventions. This study analyzed state-level differences in homelessness rates across the United States to identify influential societal factors to help guide resource prioritization. METHODS Homelessness rates for 50 states and Washington, DC, were compared using the most recent data from 2020 to 2023. Twenty-five variables representing potential socioeconomic and health contributors were examined. The correlation between these variables and the homelessness rate was calculated. Decision trees and regression models were also utilized to identify the most significant factors contributing to homelessness. RESULTS Homelessness rates were strongly correlated with the cost of living index (COLI), housing costs, transportation costs, grocery costs, and the cigarette excise tax rate (all: P < 0.001). An inverse relationship was observed between opioid prescription rates and homelessness, with increased opioid prescribing associated with decreased homelessness (P < 0.001). Due to collinearity, the combined cost of living index was used for modeling instead of its individual components. Decision tree and regression models identified the cost of living index as the strongest contributor to homelessness, with unemployment, taxes, binge drinking rates, and opioid prescription rates emerging as important factors. CONCLUSION This state-level analysis revealed the cost of living index as the primary driver of homelessness rates. Unemployment, poverty, and binge drinking were also contributing factors. An unexpected negative correlation was found between opioid prescription rates and homelessness. These findings can help guide resource allocation to address homelessness through targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas F Heston
- Medical Education and Clinical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, USA
- Family Medicine, University of Washington, Spokane, USA
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29
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Armoon B, Griffiths MD, Mohammadi R, Ahounbar E. Suicidal Behaviors and Risk Taking Among Homeless Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:1283-1299. [PMID: 36971972 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The present systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to determine sociodemographic characteristics, risky behaviors, mental health disorders, and substance use disorders associated with suicide behaviors including suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among homeless individuals. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify the relevant studies published between January 1, 1995 and November 1, 2022. After initial evaluation of 9,094 papers, a total of 23 studies met the eligibility criteria. Results of the present study showed that chronic physical illnesses, violent behaviors, mood and psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders were significantly associated with both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, while being older, having a history of physical abuse, and having mood and post-traumatic stress disorders were associated with suicide attempts only. The present study's findings suggest a crucial need for facilitating access to mental healthcare plans and promoting mental healthcare seeking among homeless individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran.
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Rasool Mohammadi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ahounbar
- Orygen, The National Center of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Center for Youth Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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30
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Malhotra A, Drexler K, Hsu M, Tang YL. Medication treatment for alcohol use disorder in special populations. Am J Addict 2023; 32:433-441. [PMID: 37551638 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant public health concern, with underutilized effective treatments, particularly in special populations. This article summarizes the current evidence and guidelines for treating AUD in special populations. METHODS This article is a literature review that synthesizes the latest research on AUD treatment for special populations. We screened 242 articles and included 57 in our final review. RESULTS There are four food and Drug Administration-approved medications for AUD (MAUD): disulfiram, oral naltrexone, extended-release injectable naltrexone (XR-NTX), and acamprosate. Naltrexone and disulfiram have the potential to cause liver toxicity, and acamprosate should be avoided in patients with severe kidney disease. Psychosocial treatments should be considered first-line for pregnant and nursing patients. Naltrexone is contraindicated in patients on opioids, as it may precipitate acute withdrawal. For patients experiencing homelessness, nonabstinent treatment goals may be more practical, and XR-NTX should be considered to improve adherence. Limited evidence suggests medication can improve AUD treatment outcomes in adolescents and young adults. For patients with poor treatment response despite adequate medication adherence, switching to a different medication and augmentation with psychosocial treatments should be considered. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Understanding the unique considerations for special populations with AUD is crucial, and addressing their special needs may improve their treatment outcomes. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Our study significantly contributes to the existing literature by summarizing crucial information for the treatment of AUD in special populations, highlighting distinct challenges, and emphasizing tailored approaches to improve overall health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniket Malhotra
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karen Drexler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Michael Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yi-Lang Tang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Substance Abuse Treatment Program, Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia, USA
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31
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Neves Horácio A, Bento A, Gama Marques J. Personality and attachment in the homeless: A systematic review. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:1312-1326. [PMID: 36951386 PMCID: PMC10523821 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231161201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homeless people present high rates of psychopathology, including personality disorders. Given the link between personality disorders and attachment, and the potential importance of these two traits for understanding homeless populations. AIMS Our aim was to review all studies focusing on attachment and on the full assessment of personality disorders in the homeless. METHOD Overall, 213 studies were screened through title and abstract. Of these, 63 articles were chosen for full-text assessment. RESULTS A total of 14 articles met eligibility criteria and were included in the present review. Six studies evaluated personality disorders and eight studies assessed attachment in the homeless. In general, reports suggested that personality disorders are highly common in the homeless, with frequencies ranging between 64% and 79% for any personality disorder. The most common personality diagnoses were paranoid (14%-74%), borderline (6%-62%), avoidant (14%-63%), and antisocial (4%-57%) personality disorders. Attachment reports differed in the methods used and presented diverse results and correlates. Even so, insecure types of attachment dominated in the homeless, accounting for 62% to 100% of the samples. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of personality disorders and insecure types of attachment in the homeless may impact intervention strategies for these people. The available literature evaluating attachment and the full assessment of personality disorders in the homeless is scarce, which supports the need for more research on these two topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Neves Horácio
- Clínica Universitária de Psiquiatria e Psicologia Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Bento
- Hospital Júlio de Matos, Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Gama Marques
- Clínica Universitária de Psiquiatria e Psicologia Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Hospital Júlio de Matos, Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Thurman W, Heitkemper E, Hutson T, Preston A, Hecht J. "The System Tends to Scoop You Up and Spit You Out and They're Done With You": The Intersection of Intellectual/Developmental Disability and Homelessness From the Perspectives of Service Providers. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1017-1029. [PMID: 37550990 PMCID: PMC10494477 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231186880] [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] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience elevated risk for poor health and social outcomes in adulthood and are at risk for experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Although the exact prevalence of IDD among homeless populations is unknown, a small body of literature related to the intersection of IDD and homelessness suggests differential health needs and service use patterns, with a need for targeted health and social services. In this study, we explore the perceptions and experiences of 18 homeless or disability service providers about (a) their clients at the intersection of IDD and homelessness and (b) their role and the services provided at the intersection of IDD and homelessness. Participants struggled to provide appropriate, accessible services for this population, owing to lack of training and awareness of specific needs, fragmented systems, and inadequately funded healthcare and housing support. Our findings also reveal that clients at this intersection have high contact with public systems, which places them at risk for losing their right to self-determination. Recommendations center on systems transformation to facilitate the ability of providers to collaborate and to make data-driven decisions to deliver person-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Thurman
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Tara Hutson
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Angela Preston
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan Hecht
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Bradford AC, Maclean JC. Evictions and psychiatric treatment. JOURNAL OF POLICY ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT : [THE JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT] 2023; 43:87-125. [PMID: 38249438 PMCID: PMC10798266 DOI: 10.1002/pam.22522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Stable housing is critical for health, employment, education, and other social outcomes. Evictions reflect a form of housing instability that is experienced by millions of Americans each year. Inadequately treated psychiatric disorders have the potential to influence evictions in several ways. For example, these disorders may impede labor market performance and thus the ability to pay rent, or increase the likelihood of risky and/or nuisance behaviors that can lead to a lease violation. We estimate the effect of local access to psychiatric treatment on eviction rates. We combine data on the number of psychiatric treatment centers that offer outpatient and residential care within a county with eviction rates in a two-way fixed-effects framework. Our findings imply that 10 additional psychiatric treatment centers in a county lead to a reduction of 2.1% in the eviction rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley C. Bradford
- Georgia Institute of Technology, School of Public Policy, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Yohannes K, Berhane Y, Bradby H, Herzig van Wees S, Målqvist M. Contradictions hindering the provision of mental healthcare and psychosocial services to women experiencing homelessness in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: service providers' and programme coordinators' experiences and perspectives. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:821. [PMID: 37528372 PMCID: PMC10391936 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09810-z] [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: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health conditions are among the health issues associated with homelessness, and providing mental healthcare to people experiencing homelessness is challenging. Despite the pressing issue of homelessness in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, there is scant research on how service providers address women's mental health and psychosocial needs. Therefore, we explored service providers' and programme coordinators' perceptions and experiences regarding mental healthcare and psychosocial services delivery to women experiencing street homelessness in the city. METHODS We conducted a descriptive qualitative study with selected healthcare and social support providers and programme coordinators. The study involved 34 participants from governmental and non-governmental organisations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. RESULTS Four themes were derived from the analysis. The first of these was "divergent intentions and actions". While service providers and programme coordinators showed empathy and compassion, they also objectified and blamed people for their own homelessness. They also expressed opposing views on mental health stigma and compassion for these people. The second theme addressed "problem-solution incompatibility", which focused on the daily challenges of women experiencing homelessness and the types of services participants prioritised. Service providers and programme coordinators proposed non-comprehensive support despite the situation's complexity. The participants did not emphasise the significance of gender-sensitive and trauma-informed care for women experiencing street homelessness in the third theme, "the lack of gendered and trauma-informed care despite an acknowledgement that women face unique challenges". The fourth theme, "mismatched resources," indicated structural and systemic barriers to providing services to homeless women. CONCLUSIONS Conflicting attitudes and practices exist at the individual, organisational, and systemic levels, making it challenging to provide mental healthcare and psychosocial services to women experiencing homelessness. An integrated, gender-sensitive, and trauma-informed approach is necessary to assist women experiencing homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalkidan Yohannes
- SWEDESD, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden.
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, WoMHeR- Women's Mental Health during the Reproductive Lifespan, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia.
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- International Child Health and Nutrition- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hannah Bradby
- Department of Sociology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sibylle Herzig van Wees
- SWEDESD, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mats Målqvist
- SWEDESD, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
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Taylor SN, Munson D. Health Care of People Experiencing Homelessness: Part I. NEJM EVIDENCE 2023; 2:EVIDra2300123. [PMID: 38320148 DOI: 10.1056/evidra2300123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Homelessness and Health CarePeople who experience homelessness have high rates of medical illness. They struggle with conditions associated with living in crowded shelters, trauma, and exposure to extreme weather. Here, Taylor and Munson review the care of this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Munson
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Boston
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Mohammad Y, Kumar R, Sinha N, Kumar P. A study of stressors, family environment, coping patterns, and family burden in persons with dissociative disorder. Ind Psychiatry J 2023; 32:317-322. [PMID: 38161469 PMCID: PMC10756624 DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_42_23] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Dissociative disorder is a stress-related disorder usually present in adolescents and younger age groups. It is also accompanied by significant impairment in activity of daily living and family relations. Family environment and use of dysfunctional coping strategies play important roles in the initiation and maintenance of symptoms and this puts a considerable burden on the family. Objectives This study aims to study the presence of stressors, the role of family environment, the role of family burden, and the use of coping mechanisms in persons with dissociative disorder. Materials and Method This was a descriptive cross-sectional study in which 100 persons with a dissociative disorder were included after fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria from the outpatient department (OPD) of psychiatry. Results In this study, the major part of the sample were women (87%), most were educated up to 12th standard or less than 12 years of formal education. According to stressors, 44% had family stress/problems. 77% (mostly women) had dissociative stupor. The dissociative disorder caused a considerable degree of burden on the other family members. There was a significant difference in financial burden among caregivers of persons who were married, belonging to rural areas, joint families, and from lower socio-economic classes. There was a significant difference in disruption of routine family activities, and burden in persons having a longer duration of illness. There was a significant difference found in conflict, achievement orientation, and dimensions of family environment between males and females. A significant difference in the venting of emotions, behavioral disengagement, and restraint as a coping strategy between males and females was found. Conclusion Present study showed dissociative disorder patients cause a considerable degree of burden on family members in terms of leisure, physical, mental, financial, and routine family interrelationship domains. In personal growth and relationship dimensions, the use of dysfunctional coping strategies in the family environment has a causal effect on the symptoms of dissociative disorder patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasir Mohammad
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Niska Sinha
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Priya Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
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Albert R, Baillie D, Neal H. Unmet needs in street homeless people: a commentary on multiple interconnected needs in a vulnerable group. Future Healthc J 2023; 10:103-106. [PMID: 37786627 PMCID: PMC10540795 DOI: 10.7861/fhj.2023-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Street homeless people face stigmas in addition multiple unmet needs, which may include physical, psychological, mental health and social needs to name a few. Their life expectancy is shorter than that of the general population. Mental health problems are common but street homeless people face considerable barriers accessing support. Institutional approaches from the health system re-traumatise street homeless people seeking care and cause moral injury and burn-out in staff. Given high rates of trauma in street homeless people, trauma-informed care approaches should be used. Professionals should make every contact count, using it as an opportunity to build trust with honesty and consistency and find out what matters to the person, as well as taking practical steps such as ensuring a means of contact. Engaging with the person's wider support system, such as support workers from homeless organisations, is key as they may have a good understanding how the mental health affects the person.
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Weightman AL, Kelson MJ, Thomas I, Mann MK, Searchfield L, Willis S, Hannigan B, Smith RJ, Cordiner R. Exploring the effect of case management in homelessness per components: A systematic review of effectiveness and implementation, with meta-analysis and thematic synthesis. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1329. [PMID: 37206622 PMCID: PMC10189499 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Adequate housing is a basic human right. The many millions of people experiencing homelessness (PEH) have a lower life expectancy and more physical and mental health problems. Practical and effective interventions to provide appropriate housing are a public health priority. Objectives To summarise the best available evidence relating to the components of case-management interventions for PEH via a mixed methods review that explored both the effectiveness of interventions and factors that may influence its impact. Search Methods We searched 10 bibliographic databases from 1990 to March 2021. We also included studies from Campbell Collaboration Evidence and Gap Maps and searched 28 web sites. Reference lists of included papers and systematic reviews were examined and experts contacted for additional studies. Selection Criteria We included all randomised and non-randomised study designs exploring case management interventions where a comparison group was used. The primary outcome of interest was homelessness. Secondary outcomes included health, wellbeing, employment and costs. We also included all studies where data were collected on views and experiences that may impact on implementation. Data Collection and Analysis We assessed risk of bias using tools developed by the Campbell Collaboration. We conducted meta-analyses of the intervention studies where possible and carried out a framework synthesis of a set of implementation studies identified by purposive sampling to represent the most 'rich' and 'thick' data. Main Results We included 64 intervention studies and 41 implementation studies. The evidence base was dominated by studies from the USA and Canada. Participants were largely (though not exclusively) people who were literally homeless, that is, living on the streets or in shelters, and who had additional support needs. Many studies were assessed as having a medium or high risk of bias. However, there was some consistency in outcomes across studies that improved confidence in the main findings. Case Management and Housing Outcomes Case management of any description was superior to usual care for homelessness outcomes (standardised mean difference [SMD] = -0.51 [95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.71, -0.30]; p < 0.01). For studies included in the meta-analyses, Housing First had the largest observed impact, followed by Assertive Community Treatment, Critical Time Intervention and Intensive Case Management. The only statistically significant difference was between Housing First and Intensive Case Management (SMD = -0.6 [-1.1, -0.1]; p = 0.03) at ≥12 months. There was not enough evidence to compare the above approaches with standard case management within the meta-analyses. A narrative comparison across all studies was inconclusive, though suggestive of a trend in favour of more intensive approaches. Case Management and Mental Health Outcomes The overall evidence suggested that case management of any description was not more or less effective compared to usual care for an individual's mental health (SMD = 0.02 [-0.15, 0.18]; p = 0.817). Case Management and Other Outcomes Based on meta-analyses, case management was superior to usual care for capability and wellbeing outcomes up to 1 year (an improvement of around one-third of an SMD; p < 0.01) but was not statistically significantly different for substance use outcomes, physical health, and employment. Case Management Components For homelessness outcomes, there was a non-significant trend for benefits to be greater in the medium term (≤3 years) compared to long term (>3 years) (SMD = -0.64 [-1.04, -0.24] vs. -0.27 [-0.53, 0]; p = 0.16) and for in-person meetings in comparison to mixed (in-person and remote) approaches (SMD = -0.73 [-1.25,-0.21]) versus -0.26 [-0.5,-0.02]; p = 0.13). There was no evidence from meta-analyses to suggest that an individual case manager led to better outcomes then a team, and interventions with no dedicated case manager may have better outcomes than those with a named case manager (SMD = -0.36 [-0.55, -0.18] vs. -1.00 [-2.00, 0.00]; p = 0.02). There was not enough evidence from meta-analysis to assess whether the case manager should have a professional qualification, or if frequency of contact, case manager availability or conditionality (barriers due to conditions attached to service provision) influenced outcomes. However, the main theme from implementation studies concerned barriers where conditions were attached to services. Characteristics of Persons Experiencing Homelessness No conclusions could be drawn from meta-analysis other than a trend for greater reductions in homelessness for persons with high complexity of need (two or more support needs in addition to homelessness) as compared to those with medium complexity of need (one additional support need); effect sizes were SMD = -0.61 [-0.91, -0.31] versus -0.36 [-0.68, -0.05]; p = 0.3. The Broader Context of Delivery of Case Management Programmes Other major themes from the implementation studies included the importance of interagency partnership; provision for non-housing support and training needs of PEH (such as independent living skills), intensive community support following the move to new housing; emotional support and training needs of case managers; and an emphasis on housing safety, security and choice. Cost Effectiveness The 12 studies with cost data provided contrasting results and no clear conclusions. Some case management costs may be largely off-set by reductions in the use of other services. Cost estimates from three North American studies were $45-52 for each additional day housed. Authors' Conclusions Case management interventions improve housing outcomes for PEH with one or more additional support needs, with more intense interventions leading to greater benefits. Those with greater support needs may gain greater benefit. There is also evidence for improvements to capabilities and wellbeing. Current approaches do not appear to lead to mental health benefits. In terms of case management components, there is evidence in support of a team approach and in-person meetings and, from the implementation evidence, that conditions associated with service provision should be minimised. The approach within Housing First could explain the finding that overall benefits may be greater than for other types of case management. Four of its principles were identified as key themes within the implementation studies: No conditionality, offer choice, provide an individualised approach and support community building. Recommendations for further research include an expansion of the research base outside North America and further exploration of case management components and intervention cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark J. Kelson
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Environment, Science and EconomyUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Ian Thomas
- Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD)Cardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Mala K. Mann
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE)Cardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Lydia Searchfield
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE)Cardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Simone Willis
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE)Cardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Ben Hannigan
- Mental Health Nursing, School of Healthcare SciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | | | - Rhiannon Cordiner
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE)Cardiff UniversityCardiffUK
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Silver CM, Thomas AC, Reddy S, Sullivan GA, Plevin RE, Kanzaria HK, Stey AM. Injury Patterns and Hospital Admission After Trauma Among People Experiencing Homelessness. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2320862. [PMID: 37382955 PMCID: PMC10311388 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.20862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Traumatic injury is a major cause of morbidity for people experiencing homelessness (PEH). However, injury patterns and subsequent hospitalization among PEH have not been studied on a national scale. Objective To evaluate whether differences in mechanisms of injury exist between PEH and housed trauma patients in North America and whether the lack of housing is associated with increased adjusted odds of hospital admission. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a retrospective observational cohort study of participants in the 2017 to 2018 American College of Surgeons' Trauma Quality Improvement Program. Hospitals across the US and Canada were queried. Participants were patients aged 18 years or older presenting to an emergency department after injury. Data were analyzed from December 2021 to November 2022. Exposures PEH were identified using the Trauma Quality Improvement Program's alternate home residence variable. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was hospital admission. Subgroup analysis was used to compared PEH with low-income housed patients (defined by Medicaid enrollment). Results A total of 1 738 992 patients (mean [SD] age, 53.6 [21.2] years; 712 120 [41.0%] female; 97 910 [5.9%] Hispanic, 227 638 [13.7%] non-Hispanic Black, and 1 157 950 [69.6%] non-Hispanic White) presented to 790 hospitals with trauma, including 12 266 PEH (0.7%) and 1 726 726 housed patients (99.3%). Compared with housed patients, PEH were younger (mean [SD] age, 45.2 [13.6] years vs 53.7 [21.3] years), more often male (10 343 patients [84.3%] vs 1 016 310 patients [58.9%]), and had higher rates of behavioral comorbidity (2884 patients [23.5%] vs 191 425 patients [11.1%]). PEH sustained different injury patterns, including higher proportions of injuries due to assault (4417 patients [36.0%] vs 165 666 patients [9.6%]), pedestrian-strike (1891 patients [15.4%] vs 55 533 patients [3.2%]), and head injury (8041 patients [65.6%] vs 851 823 patients [49.3%]), compared with housed patients. On multivariable analysis, PEH experienced increased adjusted odds of hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.33; 95% CI, 1.24-1.43) compared with housed patients. The association of lacking housing with hospital admission persisted on subgroup comparison of PEH with low-income housed patients (aOR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03-1.19). Conclusions and Relevance Injured PEH had significantly greater adjusted odds of hospital admission. These findings suggest that tailored programs for PEH are needed to prevent their injury patterns and facilitate safe discharge after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey M. Silver
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Arielle C. Thomas
- American College of Surgeons, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Susheel Reddy
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | - Hemal K. Kanzaria
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Anne M. Stey
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
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Dell NA, Vaughn MG, Huang J, Mancini M, Maynard BR. Correlates of Homelessness Among Adults with Personality Disorder. Psychiatr Q 2023:10.1007/s11126-023-10027-w. [PMID: 37227676 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-023-10027-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Although personality disorders (PDs) are more common among persons experiencing homelessness than the general population, few studies have investigated the risk of experiencing homelessness among persons with PDs. This study seeks to identify the demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral health correlates of past-year homelessness among persons with antisocial, borderline, and schizotypal PDs. Nationally representative data of the civilian, noninstitutionalized population of the United States was used to identify correlates of homelessness. Descriptive statistics and bivariate associations between variables and homeless status were summarized prior to conducting several multivariate logistic regression models to identify correlates of homelessness. Main findings revealed positive associations between poverty, relationship dysfunction, and lifetime suicide attempt with homelessness. In the antisocial PD (ASPD) and borderline PD (BPD) models, comorbid BPD and ASPD, respectively, were associated with higher odds of past-year homelessness. Findings underscore the importance of poverty, interpersonal difficulties, and behavioral health comorbidities on homelessness among persons with ASPD, BPD, and schizotypal PD. Strategies to promote economic security, stable relationships, and interpersonal functioning may buffer against the effects of economic volatility and other systemic factors that could contribute to homelessness and persons with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel A Dell
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Michael G Vaughn
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jin Huang
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael Mancini
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Brandy R Maynard
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
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Azevedo FO, Neto A, Gama A, Subtil A, Fuertes R, Pereira C, Tavares J, Medinas RL, Silva AV, Dias S. Problemas ligados ao álcool em centros de emergência (PLACE)-People experiencing homelessness with alcohol-related problems in Lisbon's emergency shelters during the COVID-19 pandemic: a description and analysis of a harm reduction intervention. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1165322. [PMID: 37275696 PMCID: PMC10236796 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1165322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Alcohol-related problems disproportionally affect people experiencing homelessness. As the first wave of the COVID-2019 pandemic spread in 2020, a number of emergency shelters were opened in Lisbon. Increased difficulties in obtaining alcohol could have led to an increased incidence of alcohol withdrawal. Therefore, a low-threshold harm reduction intervention was introduced to these emergency shelters. This consisted of a fixed medication treatment, made available immediately for those with specific conditions, without the need for a medical evaluation or abstinence from alcohol, together with an offer of subsequent access to specialized addiction centers. The Problemas Ligados ao Álcool em Centros de Emergência (PLACE) study (alcohol-related problems in emergency shelters) is a retrospective mixed-methods observational study. It describes the demographic, health, and social characteristics of shelter users participating in the program and aims to evaluate the intervention as well as the experience of the patients, professionals, and decision-makers involved. Results A total of 69 people using shelters self-reported alcohol-related problems. Among them, 36.2% of the people accepted a pharmacological intervention, and 23.2% selected an addiction appointment. The take-up of the intervention was associated with better housing outcomes. A description of an individual's trajectory after leaving the shelter is provided. Discussion This study suggests that non-abstinence-focused interventions can be useful and well-tolerated in treating addiction in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Oliveira Azevedo
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Neto
- Unidade de Alcoologia de Lisboa, Divisão para a Intervenção em Comportamentos Aditivos e Dependências, Associação Regional de Saúde, Instituto Público, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Gama
- Nova Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Subtil
- Nova Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Raquel Luis Medinas
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana V. Silva
- Unidade de Alcoologia de Lisboa, Divisão para a Intervenção em Comportamentos Aditivos e Dependências, Associação Regional de Saúde, Instituto Público, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia Dias
- Nova Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Kim DD, Procyshyn RM, Jones AA, Lee LHN, Panenka WJ, Stubbs JL, Cho LL, Leonova O, Gicas K, Thornton AE, Lang DJ, MacEwan GW, Honer WG, Barr AM. Movement disorders associated with substance use in adults living in precarious housing or homelessness. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 126:110795. [PMID: 37196752 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many individuals living in precarious housing or homelessness have multimorbid illnesses, including substance use, psychiatric, and neurological disorders. Movement disorders (MDs) associated substance use are amongst the poorly studied subtopics of drug-induced MDs. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to determine the proportion affected and severity of different signs of MDs, as well as their associations with substance use in a community-based sample of precariously housed and homeless individuals. METHODS Participants were recruited from an impoverished urban neighborhood and were assessed for substance dependence and self-reported substance use (alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, nicotine, and opioids), as well as for the severity of signs of MDs (akathisia, dyskinesia, dystonia, and parkinsonism). Adjusted regression models were used to estimate the associations of the severity of signs with the frequency of substance use over the past 4 weeks and with the baseline diagnosis of substance dependence. RESULTS The proportion of the sample with clinically relevant signs of MDs in any of the four categories was 18.6% (n = 401), and these participants demonstrated lower levels of functioning than those without signs. Of the different types of substance use, only methamphetamine (its frequency of use and dependence) was significantly associated with greater severity of overall signs of MDs. Frequency of methamphetamine use significantly interacted with age and sex, whereby older female participants exhibited the greatest overall severity with increased methamphetamine use. Of the different signs of MDs, methamphetamine use frequency was positively associated with the severity of trunk/limb dyskinesia and hypokinetic parkinsonism. Relative to no use, concurrent use of antipsychotics demonstrated lower severity of trunk/limb dyskinesia and greater severity of hypokinetic parkinsonism with methamphetamine use, and greater severity of dystonia with cocaine use. CONCLUSIONS Our study found a high proportion of MDs in a relatively young sample, and their severity was consistently associated with methamphetamine use, moderated by participant demographics and antipsychotic use. These disabling sequelae represent an important and understudied neurological condition that may affect quality of life and will require further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- David D Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ric M Procyshyn
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lik Hang N Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jacob L Stubbs
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lianne L Cho
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristina Gicas
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allen E Thornton
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - G William MacEwan
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William G Honer
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Ben David G, Amir Y, Salalha R, Sharvit L, Richter-Levin G, Atzmon G. Can Epigenetics Predict Drug Efficiency in Mental Disorders? Cells 2023; 12:1173. [PMID: 37190082 PMCID: PMC10136455 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081173] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders affect millions of individuals and their families worldwide, and the costs to society are substantial and are expected to rise due to a lack of effective treatments. Personalized medicine-customized treatment tailored to the individual-offers a solution. Although most mental diseases are influenced by genetic and environmental factors, finding genetic biomarkers that predict treatment efficacy has been challenging. This review highlights the potential of epigenetics as a tool for predicting treatment efficacy and personalizing medicine for psychiatric disorders. We examine previous studies that have attempted to predict treatment efficacy through epigenetics, provide an experimental model, and note the potential challenges at each stage. While the field is still in its infancy, epigenetics holds promise as a predictive tool by examining individual patients' epigenetic profiles in conjunction with other indicators. However, further research is needed, including additional studies, replication, validation, and application beyond clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Ben David
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (G.B.D.); (R.S.)
| | - Yam Amir
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (Y.A.)
| | - Randa Salalha
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (G.B.D.); (R.S.)
| | - Lital Sharvit
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (Y.A.)
| | - Gal Richter-Levin
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (G.B.D.); (R.S.)
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
- Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Gil Atzmon
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave., Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (Y.A.)
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Anastas TM, Stewart JC, Rand KL, Hirsh AT. Pain in People Experiencing Homelessness: A Scoping Review. Ann Behav Med 2023; 57:288-300. [PMID: 36745022 PMCID: PMC10094969 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaac060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior work suggests that people experiencing homelessness (PEH) are at heightened risk for developing pain and have a uniquely burdensome pain experience. PURPOSE The aim of this scoping review was to map the current peer-reviewed, published literature on the pain experience of PEH. METHODS In accordance with the US Annual Homeless Assessment Report, we defined homelessness as lacking shelter or a fixed address within the last year. We conceptualized the pain experience via a modified version of the Social Communication Model of Pain, which considers patient, provider, and contextual factors. Published articles were identified with CINHAL, Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases. RESULTS Sixty-nine studies met inclusion criteria. Studies revealed that PEH have high rates of pain and experience high levels of pain intensity and interference. Substantially fewer studies examined other factors relevant to the pain experience, such as self-management, treatment-seeking behaviors, and pain management within healthcare settings. Nonetheless, initial evidence suggests that pain is undermanaged in PEH. CONCLUSIONS Future research directions to understand pain and homelessness are discussed, including factors contributing to the under-management of pain. This scoping review may inform future work to develop interventions to address the specific pain care needs of PEH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy M Anastas
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jesse C Stewart
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kevin L Rand
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Adam T Hirsh
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Barboza-Salerno GE, Kosloski A, Weir H, Thompson D, Bukreyev A. A Network Analysis of the Relationship Between Mental and Physical Health in Unsheltered Homeless Persons in Los Angeles County. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:5902-5936. [PMID: 36300615 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221127222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Homelessness is a public health crisis both nationally, in the United States, and internationally. Nevertheless, due to the hidden vulnerabilities of persons who are without shelter, little is known about their experiences during periods of homelessness. The present research adopts a network approach that conceptualizes how the major risk factors of homelessness interact, namely substance abuse problems, poor mental health, disability, and exposure to physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Our analysis draws on a large demographic survey of over 5,000 unsheltered homeless persons conducted in 2017 by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. We estimated a network structure for 12 survey items tapping individual risk using the graphical least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. We then examined network centrality metrics and implemented a community detection algorithm to detect communities in the network. Our results indicated that mental illness and intimate partner violence (IPV) are central measures that connect all other mental and physical health variables together and that post-traumatic stress disorder and IPV are both highly affected by changes in any part of the network and, in turn, affect changes in other parts of the network. A community detection analysis derived four communities characterized by disability, sexual victimization and health, substance use, and mental health issues. Finally, a directed acyclic graph revealed that drug abuse and physical disability were key drivers of the overall system. We conclude with a discussion of the major implications of our findings and suggest how our results might inform programs aimed at homelessness prevention and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Kosloski
- School of Public Affairs, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Henriikka Weir
- School of Public Affairs, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | | | - Alexey Bukreyev
- College of Arts, Letters and Sciences, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
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46
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Tobin KE, Winiker A, Moran M, Felsher M, Owczarzak J. No one runs alone: Combining community-based program evaluation with photo elicitation interviewing among people experiencing homelessness. EVALUATION AND PROGRAM PLANNING 2023; 97:102206. [PMID: 36621203 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2022.102206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is associated with poor physical and mental health, but social support may reduce negative health outcomes. A community-academic partnership with Back on My Feet (BoMF), an organization in Baltimore, MD serving people experiencing homelessness, used photo elicitation interviews (PEI) to explore how social interactions within program activities improved mental health among participants. METHODS Between October 2018 and June 2019, 29 BoMF participants were recruited. Participants were provided digital cameras and photographed what BoMF meant to them. Participants presented photographs in meetings that were audio recorded and transcribed. Thirty-three themes and 44 photographs were generated. Findings were presented at a public photo exhibit. The partnership used content analysis of transcripts to build upon participant-generated themes for peer-review publication. RESULTS Social interaction among BoMF participants and volunteers helped participants form new positive social networks, often for the first time, which made participants feel valued by their peers. This led to increased self-worth, a greater sense of social support and social connectedness, and confidence that participants could overcome future challenges. CONCLUSIONS Combining community-based research with PEI provided a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms through with BoMF's activities facilitated positive mental health among participants and was a feasible approach to program evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin E Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, USA.
| | - Abigail Winiker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, USA
| | | | - Marisa Felsher
- College of Population Health, Thomas Jefferson University, USA
| | - Jill Owczarzak
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, USA
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47
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Rodriguez LA, Thomas TW, Finertie H, Wiley D, Dyer WT, Sanchez PE, Yassin M, Banerjee S, Adams A, Schmittdiel JA. Identifying Predictors of Homelessness Among Adults in a Large Integrated Health System in Northern California. Perm J 2023; 27:56-71. [PMID: 36911893 PMCID: PMC10013725 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/22.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Homelessness contributes to worsening health and increased health care costs. There is little published research that leverages rich electronic health record (EHR) data to predict future homelessness risk and inform interventions to address it. The authors' objective was to develop a model for predicting future homelessness using individual EHR and geographic data covariates. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 2,543,504 adult members (≥ 18 years old) from Kaiser Permanente Northern California and evaluated which covariates predicted a composite outcome of homelessness status (hospital discharge documentation of a homeless patient, medical diagnosis of homelessness, approved medical financial assistance application for homelessness, and/or "homeless/shelter" in address name). The predictors were measured in 2018-2019 and included prior diagnoses and demographic and geographic data. The outcome was measured in 2020. The cohort was split (70:30) into a derivation and validation set, and logistic regression was used to model the outcome. Results Homelessness prevalence was 0.35% in the overall sample. The final logistic regression model included 26 prior diagnoses, demographic, and geographic-level predictors. The regression model using the validation set had moderate sensitivity (80.4%) and specificity (83.2%) for predicting future cases of homelessness and achieved excellent classification properties (area under the curve of 0.891 [95% confidence interval = 0.884-0.897]). Discussion This prediction model can be used as an initial triage step to enhance screening and referral tools for identifying and addressing homelessness, which can improve health and reduce health care costs. Conclusions EHR data can be used to predict chance of homelessness at a population health level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Rodriguez
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Tainayah W Thomas
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Holly Finertie
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Deanne Wiley
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Wendy T Dyer
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Perla E Sanchez
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Maher Yassin
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | | | - Alyce Adams
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julie A Schmittdiel
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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Parés-Bayerri A, Calvo F, Font-Mayolas S, Panadero S, Vázquez JJ. Differences in Drug Use among Persons Experiencing Homelessness According to Gender and Nationality. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4007. [PMID: 36901020 PMCID: PMC10001730 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The main aims of this article are to update the data related to drug and alcohol use in persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) who use shelters, and to see if there are significant differences in their drug use depending on their gender and nationality. The article presents an analysis of the interconnections between the results of drug dependence detection tools (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST-10), Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS)) according to gender and nationality with the intention of identifying specific needs that lead to new lines of research into better approaches to homelessness. A cross-sectional, observational and analytical method was used to analyse the experiences of persons experiencing homelessness who use various shelters in the cities of Madrid, Girona, and Guadalajara (Spain). The results show that there are no gender differences in the risks of using drugs and drug addiction, but there are differences in terms of nationality for drug addiction, with Spanish nationals showing a greater tendency to develop drug addiction. These findings have significant implications, as they highlight socio-cultural and socio-educational influence as risk factors in drug addiction behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fran Calvo
- Serra Húnter Fellow, Pedagogy Department, Quality of Life Research Institute, Universitat de Girona, Plaça de Sant Domènec, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Font-Mayolas
- Psychology Department, Quality of Life Research Institute, Universitat de Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sonia Panadero
- Clinical Psychology Department, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Juan Vázquez
- Social Psychology Department, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871 Madrid, Spain
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Chevreau G, Coll M, Barbot F, Castillo MC, Vallat-Azouvi C. Neuropsychological functioning of homeless people in Paris: An exploratory study. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2023:1-12. [PMID: 36803262 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2023.2175321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Homelessness is a multifactorial issue, influenced by structural and individual factors. These factors include health status, which has been reported to be poorer among people experiencing homelessness. Although the somatic and mental health of homeless individuals has already been studied in France, to our knowledge, no research has been conducted on neuropsychological functioning in this country. Studies out with France have identified cognitive impairments as highly prevalent among homeless people, and these impairments are likely affected by local structural factors, such as healthcare access. Therefore, we conducted an exploratory study in Paris to evaluate cognition and associated factors in homeless adults. The second objective was to identify methodological specificities to consider in a future larger-scale study and for the application of the outcomes. For this exploratory phase, 14 individuals were recruited from specific services and were interviewed regarding their social, neurological, and psychiatric history, before completing a set of cognitive tests. The results showed a high diversity of profiles in terms of demographic characteristics, including being a migrant and/or illiterate. A high proportion of participants had signs of traumatic brain injury, anxiety, depressive disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorders. Most cognitive scores were in the low average of normative data. No statistical association was found between identified risk factors and cognitive performance. Future studies should consider the sociodemographic specificities of the homeless population and design appropriate measurement tools to improve the understanding of neuropsychological profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëtan Chevreau
- Laboratoire Psychopathologie et Processus de Changement, Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Paris, France
| | | | - Frédéric Barbot
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique (Inserm CIC 1429), Université Paris-Saclay, AP-HP Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Carmen Castillo
- Laboratoire Psychopathologie et Processus de Changement, Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Paris, France
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The Impact of COVID-19 on Access to Resources among Individuals Experiencing Homelessness and Traumatic Brain Injury. TRAUMA CARE 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/traumacare3010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The rates of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are higher among individuals experiencing homelessness compared with the general population. Individuals experiencing homelessness and a TBI may experience barriers to care. COVID-19 may have further impacted access to basic resources, such as food, shelter, and transportation for individuals experiencing homelessness. This study aimed to answer the following research question: What is the impact of COVID-19 on access to resources among individuals experiencing homelessness and TBI? A cross-sectional study design and purposive sampling were utilized to interview 38 English-speaking adults experiencing homelessness and who had sustained a TBI (ages 21–73) in one Colorado city. Qualitative questions related to the impact of COVID-19 were asked and qualitative analysis was used to analyze the responses. Three primary themes emerged regarding the types of resources that were restricted by COVID-19: basic/biological needs, financial needs, and a lack of connection. COVID-19 has shown the social work field the need for continued innovation and better practice standards for individuals who are not housed. For those living with a reported TBI history and experiencing homelessness, COVID-19 made it difficult to access basic services for survival.
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