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Cho LL, Jones AA, Gao C, Leonova O, Vila-Rodriguez F, Buchanan T, Lang DJ, MacEwan GW, Procyshyn RM, Panenka WJ, Barr AM, Thornton AE, Gicas KM, Honer WG, Barbic SP. Rasch analysis of the beck depression inventory in a homeless and precariously housed sample. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115331. [PMID: 37437487 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115331] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The approach to analysis of and interpretation of findings from the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), a self-report questionnaire, depends on sample characteristics. To extend work using conventional BDI scoring, the BDI's suitability in assessing symptom severity in a homeless and precariously housed sample was examined using Rasch analysis. Participants (n=478) recruited from an impoverished neighbourhood in Vancouver, Canada, completed the BDI. Rasch analysis using the partial credit model was done, and the structural validity, unidimensionality, and reliability of the BDI were studied. A receiver operating characteristic curve determined a Rasch cut-off score consistent with clinical depression, and Rasch scores were correlated with raw scores. Good fit to the Rasch model was observed after rescoring all items and removing Item 19 (Weight Loss), and unidimensionality and reliability were satisfactory. Item 9 (Suicidal Wishes) represented the most severe symptom. Rasch-based scores detected clinical depression with moderate sensitivity and specificity, and were positively correlated with conventional scores. The BDI in a community-based sample of homeless and precariously housed adults satisfied Rasch model expectations in a 20-item format, and is suitable for assessing symptom severity. Future research on depression in similar samples may reveal more information on using specific symptoms to determine clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianne L Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chloe Gao
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, T325 - 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fidel Vila-Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tari Buchanan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - G William MacEwan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ric M Procyshyn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Allen E Thornton
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kristina M Gicas
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Skye P Barbic
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, T325 - 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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2
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Stubbs JL, Jones AA, Wolfman D, Chan RCY, Vila-Rodriguez F, Vertinsky AT, Heran MK, Su W, Lang DJ, Field TS, Gicas KM, Woodward ML, Thornton AE, Barr AM, Leonova O, MacEwan W, Rauscher A, Honer WG, Panenka WJ. Differential age-associated brain atrophy and white matter changes among homeless and precariously housed individuals compared with the general population. BMJ Neurol Open 2023; 5:e000349. [PMID: 36660541 PMCID: PMC9843194 DOI: 10.1136/bmjno-2022-000349] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Homeless or precariously housed individuals live with poor health and experience premature mortality compared with the general population, yet little is known about age-related brain changes among these individuals. We evaluated whether MRI measures of brain structure are differentially associated with age and selected risk factors among individuals who are homeless or precariously housed compared with a general population sample. Methods We compared T1-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging measures of brain macrostructure and white matter microstructure in a well-characterised sample of 312 precariously housed participants with a publicly available dataset of 382 participants recruited from the general population. We used piecewise and multiple linear regression to examine differential associations between MRI measures and between the samples, and to explore associations with risk factors in the precariously housed sample. Results Compared with the general population sample, older age in the precariously housed sample was associated with more whole-brain atrophy (β=-0.20, p=0.0029), lower whole-brain fractional anisotropy (β=-0.32, p<0.0001) and higher whole-brain mean diffusivity (β=0.69, p<0.0001). Several MRI measures had non-linear associations with age, with further adverse changes after age 35-40 in the precariously housed sample. History of traumatic brain injury, stimulant dependence and heroin dependence was associated with more atrophy or alterations in white matter diffusivity in the precariously housed sample. Conclusions Older age is associated with adverse MRI measures of brain structure among homeless and precariously housed individuals compared with the general population. Education, improvements in care provision and policy may help to reduce the health disparities experienced by these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Stubbs
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Daniel Wolfman
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ryan C Y Chan
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fidel Vila-Rodriguez
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Non-Invasive Neurostimulation Therapies Laboratory, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Manraj K Heran
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wayne Su
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thalia S Field
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Melissa L Woodward
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Allen E Thornton
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William MacEwan
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexander Rauscher
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- Department of Psychaitry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Neuropsychiatry Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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3
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Gicas KM, Mejia-Lancheros C, Nisenbaum R, Wang R, Hwang SW, Stergiopoulos V. Cognitive determinants of community functioning and quality of life in homeless adults with mental illness: 6-year follow-up from the At Home/Chez Soi Study Toronto site. Psychol Med 2023; 53:362-370. [PMID: 33926584 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721001550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High rates of physical and mental health comorbidities are associated with functional impairment among persons who are homeless. Cognitive dysfunction is common, but how it contributes to various functional outcomes in this population has not been well investigated. This study examines how cognition covaries with community functioning and subjective quality of life over a 6-year period while accounting for the effects of risk and protective factors. METHODS Participants were 349 homeless adults (mean age = 39.8) recruited from the Toronto site of the At Home/Chez Soi study, a large Canadian randomized control trial of Housing First. Participants completed up to four clinical evaluations over 6 years. Factor scores were created to index verbal learning and memory (vLM) and processing speed-cognitive flexibility (PSCF). The primary outcomes were community functioning and subjective quality of life. Risk factors included lifetime homelessness, mental health diagnoses, medical comorbidity, and childhood adversity. Linear mixed-effects models were conducted to examine cognition-functional outcome associations over time, with resilience as a moderator. RESULTS Better vLM (b = 0.787, p = 0.010) and PSCF (b = 1.66, p < 0.001) were associated with better community functioning, but not with quality of life. Resilience conferred a protective effect on subjective quality of life (b = 1.45, p = 0.011) but did not moderate outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest a need to consider the unique determinants of community functioning and quality of life among homeless adults. Cognition should be prioritized as a key intervention target within existing service delivery models to optimize long-term functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Gicas
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - C Mejia-Lancheros
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - R Nisenbaum
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - R Wang
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S W Hwang
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - V Stergiopoulos
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Turuba R, Amarasekera A, Howard AM, Brockmann V, Tallon C, Irving S, Mathias S, Henderson J, Marchand K, Barbic S. A qualitative study exploring how young people perceive and experience substance use services in British Columbia, Canada. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2022; 17:43. [PMID: 35643591 PMCID: PMC9148204 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-022-00456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Substance use among youth (ages 12–24) is troublesome given the increasing risk of harms associated. Even more so, substance use services are largely underutilized among youth, most only accessing support when in crisis. Few studies have explored young people’s help-seeking behaviours to address substance use concerns. To address this gap, this study explored how youth perceive and experience substance use services in British Columbia (BC), Canada. Methods Participatory action research methods were used by partnering with BC youth (under the age of 30) from across the province who have lived and/or living experience of substance use to co-design the research protocol and materials. An initial focus group and interviews were held with 30 youth (ages 12–24) with lived and/or living experience of substance use, including alcohol, cannabis, and illicit substances. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically using a data-driven approach. Results Three main themes were identified and separated by phase of service interaction, starting with: Prevention/Early intervention, where youth described feeling unworthy of support; Service accessibility, where youth encountered many barriers finding relevant substance use services and information; and Service delivery, where youth highlighted the importance of meeting them where they are at, including supporting those who have milder treatment needs and/or do not meet the diagnosis criteria of a substance use disorder. Conclusions Our results suggest a clear need to prioritize substance use prevention and early interventions specifically targeting youth and young adults. Youth and peers with lived and/or living experience should be involved in co-designing and co-delivering such programs to ensure their relevance and credibility among youth. The current disease model of care leaves many of the needs of this population unmet, calling for a more integrated youth-centred approach to address the multifarious concerns linked to young people’s substance use and service outcomes and experiences.
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5
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“It cannot be boring!”: Developing a measure of function for young adults accessing integrated youth services. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2022; 6:92. [PMID: 36057736 PMCID: PMC9440742 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-022-00491-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Canada, the prevalence of mental health challenges is highest in young people aged 12–24. Mental health challenges frequently cause marked functional impairment. Despite this, we are unaware of any existing conceptualization and/or measures of function that has been developed from the perspective of young people. The objective of this paper is to develop a conceptual and measurement model, including a preliminary set of items, for an outcome measure of function for young adults accessing mental health services. Methods We conducted this study in three phases. In phase 1, we conducted three focus groups to conceptualize function as a construct from the perspective of young adults. In phase 2, we co-designed a set of items with youth (n = 4) to capture the construct. In phase 3, we invited young people (n = 12) accessing mental health services to complete workbooks and participate in one of two focus groups to evaluate whether items were clear, captured function comprehensively, and were relevant. We transcribed and compiled all data to eliminate, refine and generate new items. Results In phase 1, a conceptual model of function was developed with three main themes: basic needs, roles and responsibilities, and social connections. In phase 2, 97 candidate items were developed, and in phase 3, a candidate pool of 50 items resulted for psychometric testing. Conclusion This youth-centred conceptualization of function and preliminary item bank has the potential to advance person-centred care, outcomes, and experiences for youth seeking mental health services. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41687-022-00491-6.
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Photo elicitation to explore health and social exclusion with rooming house residents in Ottawa, Canada. Health Place 2022; 77:102866. [PMID: 35932596 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102866] [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: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about how rooming house residents perceive how housing influences their health, despite higher morbidity and premature death compared to other Canadians. The social exclusion framework of the Social Knowledge Exchange Network (SEKN) conceptualized by Popay et al. (2008) was used to investigate how rooming houses are linked to health among ten rooming house residents from six rooming houses in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Study activities included taking photos to show how living in a rooming house affects health, a community walk-about with the principal investigator, a focus group, and individual interviews. Thematic analysis revealed two broad themes: Housing is Health Care, and Just Managing Today. Findings suggest that structural inequalities and siloed care contribute to the health of rooming house residents, including the balance between poverty and desire to maintain housing, and how residents cope with this stress. If health care providers want to help alleviate the disparities in rooming house residents' health, they need to broaden the lens through which health is conceptualized.
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7
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Stubbs JL, Thornton AE, Gicas KM, O'Connor TA, Livingston EM, Lu HY, Mehta AK, Lang DJ, Vertinsky AT, Field TS, Heran MK, Leonova O, Sahota CS, Buchanan T, Barr AM, MacEwan GW, Rauscher A, Honer WG, Panenka WJ. Characterizing Traumatic Brain Injury and Its Association with Losing Stable Housing in a Community-based Sample. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2022; 67:207-215. [PMID: 33719613 PMCID: PMC8935598 DOI: 10.1177/07067437211000665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasingly recognized as a common and impactful health determinant in homeless and precariously housed populations. We sought to describe the history of TBI in a precariously housed sample and evaluate how TBI was associated with the initial loss and lifetime duration of homelessness and precarious housing. METHOD We characterized the prevalence, mechanisms, and sex difference of lifetime TBI in a precariously housed sample. We also examined the impact of TBI severity and timing on becoming and staying homeless or precariously housed; 285 precariously housed participants completed the Brain Injury Screening Questionnaire in addition to other health assessments. RESULTS A history of TBI was reported in 82.1% of the sample, with 64.6% reporting > 1 TBI, and 21.4% reporting a moderate or severe TBI. Assault was the most common mechanism of injury overall, and females reported significantly more traumatic brain injuries due to physical abuse than males (adjusted OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.14 to 1.39, P < 0.0001). The first moderate or severe TBI was significantly closer to the first experience of homelessness (b = 2.79, P = 0.003) and precarious housing (b = 2.69, P < 0.0001) than was the first mild TBI. In participants who received their first TBI prior to becoming homeless or precariously housed, traumatic brain injuries more proximal to the initial loss of stable housing were associated with a longer lifetime duration of homelessness (RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.06, P < 0.0001) and precarious housing (RR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.04, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the high prevalence of TBI in this vulnerable population, and that aspects of TBI severity and timing are associated with the loss and lifetime duration of stable housing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Stubbs
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Allen E Thornton
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kristina M Gicas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tiffany A O'Connor
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Emily M Livingston
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Henri Y Lu
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amiti K Mehta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexandra T Vertinsky
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thalia S Field
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Manraj K Heran
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Charanveer S Sahota
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tari Buchanan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - G William MacEwan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexander Rauscher
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,British Columbia Neuropsychiatry Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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8
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Shyman L, Sukhorukov R, Barbic D, Mathias S, Chau S, Leon A, Barbic S. Social determinants of health and depression in adults presenting to the emergency department: Implications for family medicine. CANADIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN MEDECIN DE FAMILLE CANADIEN 2021; 67:e337-e347. [PMID: 34906952 PMCID: PMC8670658 DOI: 10.46747/cfp.6712e337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the extent to which social determinants of health (SDH) predict levels of depression in adults presenting to the emergency department (ED) with an acute mental health crisis. DESIGN Secondary data analysis. SETTING St Paul's Hospital, an urban tertiary care hospital in Vancouver, BC. PARTICIPANTS Patients 19 years and older presenting to the ED with an acute mental health crisis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Responses to demographic questionnaires focused on SDH and to measures of self-perceived health and depression. Relationships between depression and SDH were described using t tests and χ 2 tests. The extent to which SDH variables predicted depression scores, as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), was determined using linear regression. RESULTS The primary study had 202 participants. Data for the 156 (77%) participants who completed the PHQ-9 were assessed in this secondary analysis. In this sample, 60% of participants identified as men, 37% as women, and 4% as other. The mean (SD) age was 39.1 (13.8) years, with most participants identifying as white (65%) or Indigenous (18%). Thirty-seven percent had a high school diploma or less education, and 72% reported being unemployed. Identifying as a woman, lack of access to clean drinking water, poor food security, feeling unsafe, little structured use of time, lack of a sense of community, and dissatisfaction with housing significantly predicted higher depression scores. Overall, 59% of respondents met the criteria for moderately severe or severe depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 15), with 37% of those reporting thoughts of suicide nearly every day for the past 2 weeks. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the importance of screening for both depression and SDH in the ED. Because the ED often does not have the capacity to address appropriate levels of follow-up for this population, this study has important implications for primary care. Developing a clear pathway of follow-up support for people with depression and SDH risk factors will be critical to optimize patient outcomes, promote patient safety, enhance patient satisfaction, and optimize the use of resources between the ED and primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Barbic
- Emergency physician at St Paul's Hospital in Vancouver, BC
| | - Steve Mathias
- Psychiatrist at St Paul's Hospital and Executive Director of Foundry
| | - Shannon Chau
- Graduate student in the Dietetics Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver and was a co-op student for this study
| | | | - Skye Barbic
- Health systems researcher, Research Lead at Foundry, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at UBC.
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9
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Eadie L, Lo LA, Christiansen A, Brubacher JR, Barr AM, Panenka WJ, MacCallum CA. Duration of Neurocognitive Impairment With Medical Cannabis Use: A Scoping Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:638962. [PMID: 33790818 PMCID: PMC8006301 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.638962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While the recreational use of cannabis has well-established dose-dependent effects on neurocognitive and psychomotor functioning, there is little consensus on the degree and duration of impairment typically seen with medical marijuana use. Compared to recreational cannabis users, medical cannabis patients have distinct characteristics that may modify the presence and extent of impairment. The goal of this review was to determine the duration of acute neurocognitive impairment associated with medical cannabis use, and to identify differences between medical cannabis patients and recreational users. These findings are used to gain insight on how medical professionals can best advise medical cannabis patients with regards to automobile driving or safety-sensitive tasks at work. A systematic electronic search for English language randomized controlled trials (RCTs), clinical trials and systematic reviews (in order to capture any potentially missed RCTs) between 2000 and 2019 was conducted through Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE electronic databases using MeSH terms. Articles were limited to medical cannabis patients using cannabis for chronic non-cancer pain or spasticity. After screening titles and abstracts, 37 relevant studies were subjected to full-text review. Overall, seven controlled trials met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis: six RCTs and one observational clinical trial. Neurocognitive testing varied significantly between all studies, including the specific tests administered and the timing of assessments post-cannabis consumption. In general, cognitive performance declined mostly in a THC dose-dependent manner, with steady resolution of impairment in the hours following THC administration. Doses of THC were lower than those typically reported in recreational cannabis studies. In all the studies, there was no difference between any of the THC groups and placebo on any neurocognitive measure after 4 h of recovery. Variability in the dose-dependent relationship raises the consideration that there are other important factors contributing to the duration of neurocognitive impairment besides the dose of THC ingested. These modifiable and non-modifiable factors are individually discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Eadie
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Lo
- Department of Psychology, Queens University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - April Christiansen
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queens University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey R Brubacher
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Provincial Neuropsychiatry Program, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Caroline A MacCallum
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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10
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Associations of substance use, psychosis, and mortality among people living in precarious housing or homelessness: A longitudinal, community-based study in Vancouver, Canada. PLoS Med 2020; 17:e1003172. [PMID: 32628679 PMCID: PMC7337288 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The "trimorbidity" of substance use disorder and mental and physical illness is associated with living in precarious housing or homelessness. The extent to which substance use increases risk of psychosis and both contribute to mortality needs investigation in longitudinal studies. METHODS AND FINDINGS A community-based sample of 437 adults (330 men, mean [SD] age 40.6 [11.2] years) living in Vancouver, Canada, completed baseline assessments between November 2008 and October 2015. Follow-up was monthly for a median 6.3 years (interquartile range 3.1-8.6). Use of tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids was assessed by interview and urine drug screen; severity of psychosis was also assessed. Mortality (up to November 15, 2018) was assessed from coroner's reports and hospital records. Using data from monthly visits (mean 9.8, SD 3.6) over the first year after study entry, mixed-effects logistic regression analysis examined relationships between risk factors and psychotic features. A past history of psychotic disorder was common (60.9%). Nonprescribed substance use included tobacco (89.0%), alcohol (77.5%), cocaine (73.2%), cannabis (72.8%), opioids (51.0%), and methamphetamine (46.5%). During the same year, 79.3% of participants reported psychotic features at least once. Greater risk was associated with number of days using methamphetamine (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.24, p = 0.001), alcohol (aOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01-1.18, p = 0.04), and cannabis (aOR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.14, p = 0.008), adjusted for demographic factors and history of past psychotic disorder. Greater exposure to concurrent month trauma was associated with increased odds of psychosis (adjusted model aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.19-2.00, p = 0.001). There was no evidence for interactions or reverse associations between psychotic features and time-varying risk factors. During 2,481 total person years of observation, 79 participants died (18.1%). Causes of death were physical illness (40.5%), accidental overdose (35.4%), trauma (5.1%), suicide (1.3%), and unknown (17.7%). A multivariable Cox proportional hazard model indicated baseline alcohol dependence (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.83, 95% CI 1.09-3.07, p = 0.02), and evidence of hepatic fibrosis (aHR 1.81, 95% CI 1.08-3.03, p = 0.02) were risk factors for mortality. Among those under age 55 years, a history of a psychotic disorder was a risk factor for mortality (aHR 2.38, 95% CI 1.03-5.51, p = 0.04, adjusted for alcohol dependence at baseline, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], and hepatic fibrosis). The primary study limitation concerns generalizability: conclusions from a community-based, diagnostically heterogeneous sample may not apply to specific diagnostic groups in a clinical setting. Because one-third of participants grew up in foster care or were adopted, useful family history information was not obtainable. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we found methamphetamine, alcohol, and cannabis use were associated with higher risk for psychotic features, as were a past history of psychotic disorder, and experiencing traumatic events. We found that alcohol dependence, hepatic fibrosis, and, only among participants <55 years of age, history of a psychotic disorder were associated with greater risk for mortality. Modifiable risk factors in people living in precarious housing or homelessness can be a focus for interventions.
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Jones PW, Thornton AE, Jones AA, Knerich VM, Lang DJ, Woodward ML, Panenka WJ, Su W, Barr AM, Buchanan T, Honer WG, Gicas KM. Amygdala Nuclei Volumes Are Selectively Associated With Social Network Size in Homeless and Precariously Housed Persons. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:97. [PMID: 32612516 PMCID: PMC7309349 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The amygdala is a brain region comprised of a group of functionally distinct nuclei that play a central role in social behavior. In homeless and precariously housed individuals, high rates of multimorbidity, and structural aspects of the environment may dysregulate social functioning. This study examined the neurobiological substrates of social connection in homeless and precariously housed persons by examining associations between amygdala nuclei volumes and social network size. Methods: Sixty participants (mean age 43.6 years; 73.3% male) were enrolled from an ongoing study of homeless and precariously housed adults in Vancouver, Canada. Social network size was assessed using the Arizona Social Support Interview Schedule. Amygdala nuclei volumes were extracted from anatomic T1-weighted MRI data. The central and basolateral amygdala nuclei were selected as they are implicated in anxiety-related and social behaviors. The hippocampus was included as a control brain region. Multivariable regression analysis investigated the relationship between amygdala nuclei volumes and social network size. Results: After controlling for age, sex, and total brain volume, individuals with the larger amygdala and central nucleus volumes had a larger network size. This association was not observed for the basolateral amygdala complex, though subsequent analysis found the basal and accessory basal nuclei of the basolateral amygdala were significantly associated with social network size. No association was found for the lateral amygdala nucleus or hippocampus. Conclusions: These findings suggest that select amygdala nuclei may be differentially involved in the social connections of persons with multimorbid illness and social marginalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul W. Jones
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Allen E. Thornton
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea A. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Verena M. Knerich
- Department of Computer Science, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Donna J. Lang
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Melissa L. Woodward
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William J. Panenka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wayne Su
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alasdair M. Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tari Buchanan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William G. Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristina M. Gicas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Gicas KM, Jones AA, Thornton AE, Petersson A, Livingston E, Waclawik K, Panenka WJ, Barr AM, Lang DJ, Vila-Rodriguez F, Leonova O, Procyshyn RM, Buchanan T, MacEwan GW, Honer WG. Cognitive decline and mortality in a community-based sample of homeless and precariously housed adults: 9-year prospective study. BJPsych Open 2020; 6:e21. [PMID: 32043436 PMCID: PMC7176832 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2020.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homeless and precariously housed individuals experience a high burden of comorbid illnesses, and excess mortality. Cross-sectional studies report a high rate of cognitive impairment. Long-term trajectories have not been well investigated in this group. AIMS To longitudinally assess risks for premature and/or accelerated cognitive ageing, and the relationship with early mortality in homeless and precariously housed people. METHOD This is a 9-year community-based study of 375 homeless and precariously housed individuals from Vancouver, Canada. Annual cognitive testing assessed verbal learning and memory, and inhibitory control. Linear mixed-effects models examined associations between clinical risk factors (traumatic brain injury, psychotic disorders, viral exposure, alcohol dependence) and cognitive change over 9 years. Cox regression models examined the association between cognition and mortality. RESULTS Traumatic brain injury and alcohol dependence were associated with decline in verbal memory. Inhibitory control declined, independent of risk factors and to a greater extent in those who died during the study. Better inhibitory control was associated with a 6.6% lower risk of mortality at study entry, with a 0.3% greater effect for each year of life. For each one-point increase in the Charlson Comorbidity Index score at study entry, the risk of mortality was 9.9% higher, and was consistent across age. Adjusting for comorbidities, inhibitory control remained a significant predictor of mortality. CONCLUSIONS Findings raise the possibility of a premature onset, and accelerated trajectory, of cognitive ageing in this group of homeless and precariously housed people. Traumatic brain injury, alcohol dependence and cognition could be treatment priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M Gicas
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Anna Petersson
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ric M Procyshyn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tari Buchanan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia; and British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute, Canada
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13
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Barbic SP, Chan N, Rangi A, Bradley J, Pattison R, Brockmeyer K, Leznoff S, Smolski Y, Toor G, Bray B, Leon A, Jenkins M, Mathias S. Health provider and service-user experiences of sensory modulation rooms in an acute inpatient psychiatry setting. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225238. [PMID: 31751373 PMCID: PMC6874072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory modulation rooms (SMRs) are therapeutic spaces that use sensory modulation concepts and strategies to assist service users to self-regulate and modulate arousal levels. SMRs are increasingly being explored as strength-based and person-centered adjuncts to care for people receiving inpatient psychiatry services. The aim of this study is to understand health provider and inpatient service user perceptions on the use of SMRs on acute psychiatric units. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with ten service users and nine health providers (four occupational therapists and five nurses) regarding their experiences of the SMRs located on three acute inpatient units in a large urban tertiary care hospital. We audio recorded and transcribed the focus groups and used thematic analysis to analyze the data. RESULTS Our results suggested four common themes amongst health provider and service user experiences of sensory modulation rooms: (1) service user empowerment through self-management, (2) emotional regulation, (3) an alternative to current practices, and (4) health provider and service user education. CONCLUSION Our study supports the ecological utility of SMRs as person-centred adjunct therapeutic space viewed positively by both service users and health providers. This understanding of SMRs is critical for future service design, research and policy aimed at improving the service user experience and care for this population. Future research is needed to validate the experience of the SMRs with other patient groups and health providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye P Barbic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Foundry, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicole Chan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amanpreet Rangi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James Bradley
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rachal Pattison
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Sandy Leznoff
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yojo Smolski
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gagan Toor
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blaine Bray
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Adelena Leon
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Malcolm Jenkins
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Foundry, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steve Mathias
- Providence Health Care, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Foundry, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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14
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Rowe CL, Riley ED, Eagen K, Zevin B, Coffin PO. Drug overdose mortality among residents of single room occupancy buildings in San Francisco, California, 2010-2017. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 204:107571. [PMID: 31581024 PMCID: PMC11105971 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single room occupancy (SRO) buildings, also known as residential hotels, are a form of affordable housing common to cities in North America, and residents of these buildings face elevated rates of substance use, physical and mental multimorbidity, and mortality. Identifying distinct populations at greater risk of overdose death is crucial to the planning of interventions aiming to reduce drug-related mortality, yet no studies have assessed the population burden of overdose mortality among SRO residents. The present study quantifies and characterizes drug overdose mortality among residents of SRO buildings in a large U.S. city. METHODS We used mortality records and a database of SRO buildings to calculate rate ratios comparing overdose mortality due to opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamine among SRO residents and non-SRO residents in San Francisco, CA 2010-2017 and assessed bivariate differences in decedent and death location characteristics between SRO resident and other overdose decedents. RESULTS There were 1,551 overdose deaths during the study period, with an overall rate of 21.3 per 100,000 residents (95%CI = 20.2-22.6). The rate among SRO residents (278.7, 95%CI = 252.9-306.5) was 19.3 (95%CI = 17.1-21.7) times that of non-SRO residents (21.3, 95%CI = 20.2-22.6). An additional 79 (5%) deaths among non-residents occurred in SRO buildings, and 86% of SRO resident decedents died at home compared to 64% of non-SRO residents (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Overdose mortality was substantially higher among SRO residents, who were also more likely to die from overdose at home, which highlights the need for resources and targeted interventions directed towards residents of SRO buildings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Rowe
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States; University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way, 5th Floor, Berkeley, CA, 94702, United States.
| | - Elise D Riley
- University of California, San Francisco, 500 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, United States
| | - Kellene Eagen
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, 230 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
| | - Barry Zevin
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, 50 Ivy Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
| | - Phillip O Coffin
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States; University of California, San Francisco, 500 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, United States
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15
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Waclawik K, Jones AA, Barbic SP, Gicas KM, O'Connor TA, Smith GN, Leonova O, Mathias S, Barr AM, Procyshyn RM, Lang DJ, Woodward ML, MacEwan GW, Panenka WJ, Yamamoto A, Honer WG, Thornton AE. Cognitive Impairment in Marginally Housed Youth: Prevalence and Risk Factors. Front Public Health 2019; 7:270. [PMID: 31649909 PMCID: PMC6792471 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Homeless and marginally housed youth are particularly vulnerable members of society, and are known to experience numerous health problems, including psychiatric illness, substance use, and viral infection. Despite the presence of these risk factors for cognitive compromise, there is limited research on the cognitive functioning of homeless and marginally housed youth. The present study examines the degree and pattern of cognitive impairment and associations with key risk factors in a sample of marginally housed young adults. Method: Participants (N = 101) aged 20–29 years old were recruited from single-room occupancy hotels, and underwent cognitive, psychiatric, neurological, and serological assessments. Results: Forty percent of participants were identified as mildly cognitively impaired across multiple domains, and 16% were moderately-severely impaired. Deficits in memory and attention were most prevalent, while impairments in inhibitory control/processing speed and cognitive flexibility were also present but tended to be less severe. Developmental and historical factors (premorbid intellectual functioning, neurological soft signs, earlier exposure to and longer duration of homelessness or marginal housing), as well as current health risks (stimulant dependence and hepatitis C exposure), were associated with cognitive impairment. Conclusions: The strikingly high rate of cognitive impairment in marginally housed young adults represents a major public health concern and is likely to pose a significant barrier to treatment and rehabilitation. These results suggest that the pathway to cognitive impairment involves both developmental vulnerability and modifiable risk factors. This study highlights the need for early interventions that address cognitive impairment and risk factors in marginalized young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Waclawik
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Skye P Barbic
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Providence Health Care and Foundry, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristina M Gicas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Geoffrey N Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Steve Mathias
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Providence Health Care and Foundry, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ric M Procyshyn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Donna J Lang
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Melissa L Woodward
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - G William MacEwan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Allen E Thornton
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Barbic SP, Kidd SA, Durisko ZT, Yachouh R, Rathitharan G, McKenzie K. What Are the Personal Recovery Needs of Community-Dwelling Individuals with Mental Illness? Preliminary Findings from the Canadian Personal Recovery Outcome Measurement (C-PROM) Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.7870/cjcmh-2018-005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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