Ethnicity, patterns of substance misuse and criminality: a comparative study of White and Asian patient populations in West London

Abstract

Aims To compare and evaluate patterns of substance misuse and criminality in White and Asian patient populations. Setting Outer Borough of London. Methods Retrospective case note study of 200 consecutive attendees at a Community Drug Treatment Unit. Outcome measures (1) Age at presentation; (2) sex distribution; (3) age of first use; (4) drug of choice; (5) alcohol consumption; (6) criminal record; and (7) amount spent (£ sterling) on drug habit per day. Results In the Asian group there were more opiate users and lower levels of alcohol consumption. The Asian group reported less criminal activity and a lower age of presentation to the service compared to the White group. There were very few Asian females attending the service. There was no appreciable difference in the daily amount spent on drug habit or age of first use of drugs between the two groups. Comments/clinical implications Our study provides evidence that there is need for vigorous research in this field, particularly targeting hidden populations like Asian women. This will inform service development so that it is culturally sensitive and appropriate to the needs of ethnic minorities.