Substance Abuse Research Articles

Racial Capitalism and Black-White Health Inequities in the United States: The Case of the 2008 Financial Crisis.

Scholars cite racist political-economic systems as drivers of health inequities in the United States (i.e., racial capitalism). But how does racial capitalism generate health inequities? I address this open question within the historical context of predatory lending during the 2008 financial crisis. Relevant hypotheses are tested with multiple waves of data from Black and White participants of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (N = 8,877). Across socioeconomic strata, I find that Black participants report higher rates of foreclosure, eviction, repossession, delinquent bills, lost income, and new debts in the wake of the financial crisis. Using structural equation and quasi-experimental models, I then show that Black participants also self-report rapid health declines and increases in prescription drug abuse throughout this period, much of which is explained by chronic financial stress. I conclude that racial capitalism can generate health inequities by ensnaring Black Americans in a toxic web of financial exploitation and stress proliferation.

Gender differences in first episode psychosis: Some arguments to develop gender specific treatment strategies

IntroductionSome aspects of gender differences in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) have been studied, especially in cross-sectional designs and with a short-term follow-up. However, only a few studies have considered the evolution during the follow-up of SSD patients according to their gender. In this study, we explore gender differences from the time of entry in an early intervention program for psychosis, up to three years follow-up. MethodsWe conducted a prospective study including a cohort of 474 patients treated at the Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis (TIPP) program, 319 men and 155 women, having presented a first episode of psychosis (FEP). Data regarding premorbid and baseline sociodemographic, psychopathological and patient functioning, were collected. These data were reassessed longitudinally after 2, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 months after entry in TIPP. ResultsRegarding premorbid and baseline characteristics, woman developed threshold symptoms of a FEP 1 year later than men on average. Women were more likely to be married, men were more likely to live in pension or care home facility or to be homeless. Women displayed a higher rate of history of suicide attempts and exposure to childhood trauma, while men were more likely to have a forensic history, a history of abuse of alcohol and cannabis as well as a dependency to cannabis at the time of entry in TIPP. Regarding evolution, men were more prone to violent acts and were less likely to decrease their usage of substances. The longitudinal analysis highlighted that men displayed greater negative symptoms over the entire treatment period, lower functioning after 6 months and on all assessment points after. Both genders displayed similar rate of improvement in these 3 dimensions over time. ConclusionOur study confirms that there are some gender differences in the early phase of psychosis that may require differentiation of assessment and treatment to improve recovery.

Social media – Boon or Bane?

Abstract Introduction and aims This literature review examines the complex relationship between social media usage and its subsequent health sequelae while shedding light on fields of research that require further investigation in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Materials and methods Indexing services (SCOPUS and PUBMED) were used to identify pertinent studies, prioritising original research, review articles, and meta-analyses from 2018 to 2024. Papers not published in English (or where full-text translation was not available), research conducted solely on non-human populations, and proposal and opinion papers were excluded. Papers from before 2018 and those that observed an effect in a sample size of 50 participants or less were also omitted. The author then conducted a thorough evaluation of each study to ensure relevance and significance. After deduplication of results and implementation of the exclusion criterion, a total of 50 papers were shortlisted for this review. The keywords used for this literature search were “social media,” “internet usage,” “health,” “depression,” “cyberbullying,” “addiction,” and “misinformation.” Results The findings reveal a complex interplay between social media usage and psychosocial well-being. Social media facilitates global connectivity but correlates with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, especially among adolescents. Cyberbullying, anonymity-driven, escalates mental health risks. Social media usage links with addictive behaviours, substance abuse, misinformation propagation, and racial discrimination, exacerbating public health crises. Conclusion Longitudinal studies are crucial to understand causal relationships and develop targeted interventions. Collaboration among stakeholders is imperative to promote responsible social media usage and protect public health in the digital age.

Substance abuse in Bhopal: An epidemiological survey

Background: Substance abuse has become a significant problem worldwide, affecting both developed and developing countries. In India, the situation is particularly concerning, with a likelihood of further increase in drug abuse and substitution of more potent drugs due to rapid industrialization and urbanization. Methods: Descriptive Survey Research was carried out among Seventy males of different De-addiction and Rehabilitation centers in Bhopal during the period of 19 November to 18 December 2022. A Predesigned and Pretested questionnaire was used to collect information from the Respondents. Results: Majority of the Respondents come from a background where the family or friends were into Drugs. Most of the Substance Users exist between the age group of 21-30 years. The major reason for the initiation of Drug according to the study was Curiosity and Enjoyment, and the major Source for initiation of Drugs were Friends (accounting to 86%) and Families (7%) respectively. Large number of the Respondents were Multi addicts followed by Alcohol, Ganja/Weed, Opioid and Cocaine Users. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive approaches to address the underlying reasons of substance abuse, including community and family engagement. This study highlights the complexity of substance abuse, with multiple factors driving drug initiation, including curiosity, external persuasion, and psychological stress.

KAJIAN YURIDIS PASAL 23 AYAT 1 UNDANG-UNDANG NOMOR 2 TAHUN 2011 TENTANG PARTAI POLITIK MENGENAI BATAS MASA JABATAN KETUA PARTAI POLITIK

This study addresses the urgency of limiting the tenure of party leaders in Indonesia to strengthen the democratic system. According to Karl Popper, democracy allows citizens to control their leaders, contrasting with authoritarian leadership styles. Indonesia, as a democratic nation, recognizes the crucial role of political parties in political dynamics, regulated under Law No. 2 of 2011. However, this law does not specifically address the tenure limits of party leaders, leading to potential abuse of power and the emergence of political dynasties. This research highlights cases such as PDIP, Demokrat, and Gerindra, where party leaders have held their positions for extended periods. The study advocates for the implementation of standardized rules regarding the term limits of party leaders to prevent authoritarianism and ensure a healthy democracy.

Profile of forensic patients admitted for medico-legal and psychiatric assessment at Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Kigali, Rwanda: demographic, clinical and forensic factors

ABSTRACT Forensic psychiatric care aims to improve mental health and reduce recidivism in mentally disordered offenders, facilitating community reintegration in a secure treatment environment. This study explores the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of individuals undergoing medico-legal psychiatric assessments at Ndera Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Kigali, Rwanda. Conducted as a descriptive study, data were collected retrospectively from patient files, with analysis revealing that the majority (76%) were males, predominantly aged 18–45 years (median age 31.5 years). A significant proportion (62.9%) was single, and unemployment rates stood at 56.4%. Clinically, 53% had a history of psychiatric illness, with substance abuse (24.2%), bipolar disorder (14.5%), and schizoaffective disorders (6.5%) being the prevalent diagnoses. Notably, 41.9% had comorbidities. The crimes committed included physical assault (46.7%), sexual assault (25.8%), and murder (21.0%). These findings emphasize the need for targeted policies addressing mental health and socioeconomic disparities in this population, as well as interventions to reduce criminal involvement. It highlights the complexity of cases, with a considerable proportion exhibiting multiple hospital admissions and diverse psychiatric conditions. The study underscores the importance of a secure treatment environment, aligning with the broader objective of improving mental health and minimizing recidivism in mentally disordered offenders.

Molecular understanding of the self-assembly of an N-isopropylacrylamide delivery system for the loading and temperature-dependent release of curcumin

Global changes and drug abuse are forcing humanity to face various disease problems, and alternative therapies with safe natural substances have important research value. This paper combines various techniques in quantum chemical calculations and molecular simulations to provide molecular-level insight into the dynamics of the self-assembly of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) for loading curcumin (CUR). The results indicate that increasing the chain length of NIPAM molecules reduces their efficiency in encapsulating and locking CUR, and electrostatic interactions and van der Waals interactions are the main driving forces behind the evolution of system configurations in these processes. The isopropyl groups of NIPAM and the two phenolic ring planes of CUR are the main contact areas for the interaction between the two types of molecules. The thermosensitive effect of NIPAM can alter the distribution of isopropyl groups in NIPAM molecules around CUR. As a result, when the temperature rises from ambient temperature (300 K) to human characteristic temperature (310 K), the NIPAM-CUR interactions and radial distribution functions suggest that body temperature is more suitable for drug release. Our findings offer a vital theoretical foundation and practical guidance for researchers to develop temperature-sensitive drug delivery systems tailored for CUR, addressing its clinical application bottleneck.

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV in a Substance Abuse Treatment Center.

Alcohol and substance use disorders are important public health problems with an increased risk for bloodborne and sexually transmitted infections. To determine the frequency and risk factors of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV in individuals with drug and alcohol addiction. This prospective study was conducted in the outpatient clinic of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Treatment and Education Center (ASATEC), Izmir, Turkey. Detailed anamneses were taken from alcohol and/or drug addicts who applied to the outpatient clinic; HBV, HCV, HIV serology results in the last 6 months were examined. The study group consisted of 478 persons, including 112 (23.4%) alcohol addicts, 322 (67.4%) substance addicts, and 44 (9.2%) combined alcohol and substance addicts. The mean age of the cases was 32 ± 11 years and 432 (90.4%) were male. Drug injection and needle sharing was recorded in 16.5% and 9.8% of participants, respectively. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity was found in 2.7%, anti-HCV positivity in 9.6% and HIV Ag/Ab positivity in 1.9% of the cases. Among patients using intravenous drugs, HBsAg positivity was found in 2%, anti-HCV positivity in 55%, while HIV Ag/Ab positivity was not detected. A history of sexually transmitted disease was a risk factor for HBsAg, HIV Ag/Ab positivity. Intravenous drug use, needle sharing and ecstasy use were determined as risk factors for anti-HCV positivity. Risky behaviors for HBV, HCV and HIV transmission are high in alcohol and substance addicts. The use of ecstasy is a novel risk factor for HCV transmission.

Evaluation of the Personality Characteristics of Cardiovascular Patients and People with a History of Drug abuse with the Control Group

Evaluation of the Personality Characteristics of Cardiovascular Patients and People with a History of Drug abuse with the Control Group

Effectiveness of ABS Radio Programme NDLEA and You in Creating Awareness about Drug Abuse and Drug-Related Crimes among Awka Residents

Effectiveness of ABS Radio Programme NDLEA and You in Creating Awareness about Drug Abuse and Drug-Related Crimes among Awka Residents

Unsettling trend: The alarming rise of human abuse of veterinary drugs and its consequences

ABSTRACT Veterinary practitioners often prescribe many controlled drugs to animals that may include sedatives, tranquilizers, and painkillers. Unfortunately, many of these drugs are drugs that can be abused by humans, especially among the pet owners. Adequate measures are required to prevent or detect the misuse of veterinary drugs. In this article, the phenomenon of the rising misuse of veterinary medications by humans and their potential health hazards which can accompany the unsettling trends in society has been highlighted. This article aims to shed light on the extent of issues, exploring reasons behind human abuse and its consequences.

Public Perception Towards Drug Abuse in South Korea: The Effects of Overconfidence and Affirmation.

The abuse of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines has been a major issue addressed as a serious public health problem worldwide. This study explored factors contributing to substance abuse in Korea by examining the status of substance abuse among Korean adults and evaluating their knowledge, attitudes, and intentions toward substance abuse. Data were collected online from a sample of participants 19 years old or older from May 20 to June 1, 2020 (n=1,020). The survey consisted of questions on demographics, perceptions of drug risk, motives for drug use, and attitudes toward drug addiction treatment. Principal component and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to explore the factors contributing to the perception of drug abuse. In the multivariate regression analysis, overconfidence in handling drug usage, acceptance of addictive substances, and affirmation of public support for drug abuse were associated with opioid abuse (Nagelkerke R2=0.486), and additionally affirmation of legal cannabis usage and motivation to use diet pills were associated with diet pill abuse (Nagelkerke R2=0.569). The findings of this study suggest that the actual situation of substance abuse among Korean adults increases awareness of and attitudes toward drug use related to substance abuse.

Zolpidem’s insidious potential of abuse: A word of caution

To the Editor, Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic drug with a binding site similar to benzodiazepines (BZ) and is commonly used in the treatment of insomnia. Initial clinical trials have demonstrated promising results, and the drug was marketed because of its efficacy, low dependence risk, and safer profile.1,2,3 However, several studies have highlighted a serious concern about the misuse of non-BZ drugs, demonstrating that the usage of zolpidem is associated with complex sleep behaviours, including somnambulism, falls with serious injuries, motor vehicle accidents, attempted suicide, inability to recall actions taken while asleep, and even death in a few cases.3 The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has brought attention to this concern with a boxed warning.3 One peculiar side effect of zolpidem is euphoria and a state of being high. A 2007 network study spotlighted this effect of zolpidem in several instances of drug abuse when a population group consumed the substance for stimulation, feelings of well-being and euphoria, anxiolysis, and sexual disinhibition.2 More recently, a 2022 case study reported this paradoxical effect in a 23-year-old female who was prescribed zolpidem for trouble with sleeping but later discovered the euphoric effects of the drug by chance, which led to her ingesting increasing doses, ultimately resulting in dependence, withdrawal symptoms, depressive mood, and even suicide attempts.4 With prolonged use, mania, delusions, and withdrawal seizures have been reported as well.3 These alarming findings raise a more serious issue: are the existing laws sufficient to protect the public from zolpidem abuse and its harmful side effects? Pakistan is among the nations that frequently utilize zolpidem as it is easily available without prescription and supervision. Zolpidem could be a new alternative for drug abusers or a first drug abuse case for first-time users.5 Unchecked use of such drugs is a result of a lack of awareness about their negative effects, stigma surrounding mental health, lack of rehabilitation facilities, unhealthy lifestyles, and poor sleep hygiene. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued a drug safety alert urging registration holders to update the safety specification of zolpidem-containing drugs by including information related to complex sleep behaviour in the warning and precautions, information related to contraindications in patients who have experienced complex sleep behaviours after taking these drugs in the past, and to create a boxed warning in accordance with the FDA format. ---Continue

Social Group Membership, Social Identities, and Mental Health Experiences in Urban Poor Communities in Ghana: A Critical Social Psychology Inquiry.

Social groups and identities significantly influence mental health outcomes, yet their impact in resource-poor communities remains understudied. We explored the role of social group memberships and identities in shaping mental health experiences in two urban poor communities in Ghana. Data from 77 participants were analyzed thematically, revealing widespread engagement in social groups that provide access to both material and symbolic resources. However, these groups also serve as sources of tension and contribute to the stigmatization and marginalization of vulnerable members. Those affected include individuals with severe mental disorders, men experiencing depression, young men involved in substance abuse, family caregivers, migrant and tenant households, and otherwise healthy individuals with recurring psychosocial challenges. The groups exacerbate mental health challenges and restrict access to care among marginalized populations. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing mental health support and reducing stigma in resource-poor settings.

Medication Adherence and Treatment Satisfaction With Lipid-Lowering Drugs Among Patients With Diabetes and Dyslipidemia.

Poor adherence to lipid-lowering drugs in diabetic patients with dyslipidemia increases has been linked with an increased cardiovascular risk. A better understanding of the determinants of adherence to lipid-lowering drugs and treatment satisfaction among people with diabetes and dyslipidemia is crucial. We aimed to assess the prevalence of adherence to lipid-lowering drugs, identify its determinant factors, and evaluate treatment satisfaction among users of lipid-lowering drugs who have diabetes and dyslipidemia. We surveyed 398 adult patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia, using a validated medication adherence survey (Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale) and a validated treatment satisfaction survey (Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, TSQM). Sociodemographic and medical history data were collected through questionnaires. The prevalence of poor medication adherence was 36%. Factors associated with poor adherence included adverse reactions to medications, lack of medication availability, and lack of family support. Adherent patients reported lower low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol levels, higher treatment satisfaction, and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease and comorbidities. Having a family history of dyslipidemia was negatively associated with adherence, while the number of comorbidities positively influenced it. The scores of TSQM components such as effectiveness, global satisfaction, and convenience were significantly higher in people who were adherent or achieved the LDL-C target. Our findings highlight the need for interventions targeting several factors impacting adherence to lipid-lowering drugs in patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia. Managing adverse effects, leveraging family support, and ensuring medication access represent crucial aspects of improving adherence and potentially mitigating cardiovascular risks in this high-risk population.

The ripple effect of school dropout: exploring the nexus between school dropout, deviance, and subsequent arrest amongst children in India

PurposeThis paper aims to measure the prevalence of deviant behaviour among children who have dropped out of school and their subsequent arrests by the criminal justice system. The paper further analyses the relationship between the factors attributed to deviant behaviour and the subsequent arrests by the criminal justice system.Design/methodology/approachUsing a semi-structured interview schedule, data was collected from 330 children who had already dropped out of school, remained on the streets or worked. The interviews took place in the presence of either of the children’s parents, with their consent.FindingsThe research identified 12 significant factors contributing to children dropping out of school. It also found six factors responsible for deviant behaviour. Furthermore, the study revealed that about 70% of the respondents were involved in one or more deviant behaviours. Among them, 51% had been detained by the Police in the past two years. Additionally, the linear regression model results positively predict the nexus among the six factors responsible for deviant behaviour.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to male children who had dropped out of school, as female children were excluded. In connection with measuring deviant behaviour, it was challenging to discern whether it occurred before students left school, after or both.Practical implicationsThe study suggests several measures, including policies such as early intervention programmes, providing quality education, mentoring and counselling for students and parents, vocational education opportunities, creating drug-free environments, career guidance, peer mentoring, community engagement, substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation programmes, to prevent school dropout and subsequent deviant behaviour.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is unique to India. The moderation regression model represents an exceptional finding. This study constitutes another addition to the field of child welfare while also indicating scope for future research.

Candida Tropicalis Endocarditis: A case report and literature review

Fungi rarely cause infective endocarditis but when they do, they are often associated with poor outcomes. Candida tropicalis accounts for only 10% of Candida endocarditis cases. A case of a 30-year-old male with a history of intravenous drug abuse was reported to the emergency department in August, 2021 with the right-sided leg pain and fever for 3 days. A trans-thoracic echocardiogram showed vegetation on the aortic valve and a computed tomography angiogram showed complete non-opacification of the right-sided common iliac artery and the superficial femoral artery just distal to its branching of the right profunda femoris artery. An emergent right iliofemoral embolectomy was done. Candida tropicalis was isolated from tissue and blood cultures. The patient was successfully treated with aortic valve replacement and intravenous caspofungin. The other reported cases of Candida tropicalis were reviewed and findings were compared with those reported in patients with Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis endocarditis.

Perceptions of mental health, suicide and working conditions in the construction industry-A qualitative study.

The aim of the study was to explore perceptions of mental ill health, suicidal behaviour and working conditions among male construction workers, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of these phenomenon and to identify relevant avenues for workplace interventions. Data were collected in individual and group interviews, and 43 individuals from the Swedish construction industry, workers, union representative and managers, participated in the study. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Five main themes were found: Difficult to talk about mental health, Demanding working environment affects mental health, Substance abuse among construction workers, Importance of management, and Need for routines and social support in the workplace. Many participants reported that there was a stigma related to mental health. Suicides that had occurred among colleagues were perceived to come out of the blue. The working environment in the construction industry was perceived to have a negative effect on mental health, and it was reported that the management played an important role in both the cause and prevention of mental health problems. The results from this Swedish study are in accordance with previous international research regarding a macho culture, stigma of mental health and a demanding working environment in the construction industry. The study adds to existing knowledge by highlighting that suicides were perceived to be very unexpected, that poor physical health affected mental health and that many participants did not know how to deal with mental health issues in the workplace.

TV medical dramas: assessing the portrayal of public health in primetime.

The influence of medical dramas could extend beyond the realm of entertainment and potentially strengthen/orient the knowledge, attitudes and hopefully practice of health professionals and the public, despite often depicting unrealistic medical outcomes and scenarios. This study examined the portrayal of public health issues in two popular international medical series, "Grey's Anatomy" and "House, MD," selected for their awards and viewership ratings. Individual episodes were double-rated by clinicians for patient characteristics, public health issues, and infection risk management. 94 episodes with 286 clinical cases were analyzed. A wide range of conditions and pathologies were depicted, with a focus on acute clinical events, trauma and mental disorders, which contrasts with real-life causes of hospitalization and highlight the dramatization in these series. Public health issues such as organ donation and substance abuse were frequently addressed, but prevention and health promotion received little attention. Proper use of personal protective equipment was mostly observed, although hand hygiene was underrepresented. The study highlights the dual role of medical dramas as an entertainment medium and a potential educational tool. While they can raise awareness and encourage healthier behavior, their portrayal of medical practices and patient care often deviates from reality and can create unrealistic expectations. The influence of these dramas also extends to viewers' perceptions of healthcare and medical professionals, underscoring the need for accurate and responsible portrayal of health issues in the media.

Challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on women’s HIV harm reduction centers: a mixed-methods study

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to nations worldwide, affecting various sectors of society. Women’s HIV harm reduction centers, which provide critical services, have also been affected by these difficulties. This study aimed to examine the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on the services offered by women’s HIV harm reduction centers from the perspective of clients.MethodsA convergent mixed-method design was utilized to gain in-depth insights into the challenges of COVID-19 on the services provided by women’s HIV harm reduction centers, counseling centers, and night shelters that cater to women at risk, such as drug users, sex workers, and the homeless population, in three provinces (Tehran, Khuzestan, and Kermanshah) in Iran. The study was conducted from January to May 2023. The quantitative aspect of the study employed a cross-sectional method with a sample size of 430 individuals. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to assess a range of services. The qualitative part of the study involved traditional content analysis and included 32 individual interviews. The integration of qualitative and quantitative results was performed during the interpretation phase to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges of COVID-19 on women’s HIV harm reduction centers.ResultsIn the quantitative phase, the mean age of women was 39.0 ± 10.2 years. 165 women reported a history of COVID-19, which accounts for 38.4% of the total. More than half of them (n = 102, 61.8%) recovering at home. The majority of women (n = 365, 84.9%) mentioned receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 diagnostic tests were conducted for 74.2% (n = 319) of women. Women expressed higher satisfaction with the services (HIV prevention services, and accommodation services) before the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the satisfaction during the pandemic. The qualitative analysis identified emerging challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic in two categories: personal challenges and mismanagement of services, comprising nineteen subcategories.ConclusionThe findings of this study highlight the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the services provided by women’s HIV harm reduction centers, in contrast to the pre-pandemic period. To mitigate these negative effects, it is crucial to implement preventive measures and practical solutions. This may involve addressing the personal and management challenges of the centers.