Prevalence Of Substance Use Disorders Research Articles

Participative development of a culture-sensitive instrument to measure substance use in Syrian refugees

Abstract Background Rarely assessment instruments have been developed with end users such as refugees or those suffering from mental health conditions. Refugees’ experiences pre-, during, and post-flight are associated with various mental health problems including substance use disorders. Systematic reviews on the prevalence of substance use disorders in refugees worldwide show heterogeneous results. To address possible misclassification due to the lack of refugee-sensitive instruments we aimed to develop a refugee-sensitive instrument. Methods We applied a three-step triangulation study design. First, we conducted a three-stage delphi-process in 2019 and 2020. We recruited Syrian medical doctors for the study. Second, we conducted six focus group discussions with Syrian refugees and medical doctors. Third, we conducted expert checks with medical doctors and professionals providing psycho-social services for refugees. For all focus group discussions, audio recordings were translated and transcribed. Computer-assisted thematic analysis was performed applying a deductive approach with semantic coding. Results The refugee-sensitive instrument consists of seven domains of substance use: lifetime use of relevant types of substances, frequency, intensity, self-perception of, and situations posing a risk for substance use, ability to perform, craving, tolerance, and intentions to reduce or quit substance use. Discussion The instrument has been developed qualitatively, however, a limitation is that it could not be validated in a quantitative large sample of refugees. In spite of this limitation, this is - to the best of our knowledge - the first instrument that has been developed in a participatory approach together with end-users. Outlook The study suggests that developing assessment instruments in a participatory approach is feasible. Participatory development of assessment instruments is in line with the new paradigm of co-creation of mental health conditions management.

The trajectory of substance use disorder among people formerly in foster care: A survival analysis.

Substance use disorder (SUD) represents a significant public health challenge, especially among individuals who have faced early life adversities. Foster care aims to provide a supportive environment for children; however, the relationship between a history of foster care and SUD development remains unclear. This study aims to examine the likelihood of developing SUD among individuals with a history of foster care, who have used substances during their lifetime, compared to those raised by biological parents. Using data from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (NESARC-III), we analyzed the prevalence of social demographics and clinical variables among individuals who have used alcohol, nicotine, or cannabis. We calculated the probabilities of developing SUD for each factor, including exposure to foster care. Various covariates that could impact SUD occurrence were also assessed. The duration from initial substance use to SUD onset was calculated for both groups. Survival analysis curves were generated for each substance to depict the probability of SUD development over time. Our analysis revealed that foster care may act as a protective factor against Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD), with a hazard ratio of 0.25 (95% CI [0.07, 0.88]). No significant associations were found with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) or Nicotine Use Disorder (NUD). Both foster and non-foster care groups exhibited higher probabilities of developing NUD compared to the general population. For cannabis users, the probability of developing CUD stabilizes after approximately 10 years. Family history of SUD and clinical predictors such as mood disorders consistently showed significant associations across all substance groups, highlighting their importance in SUD development. Our findings suggest that foster care may offer some protective benefits, particularly against CUD, emphasizing the need for further research into its protective factors and the development of targeted interventions to reduce SUD prevalence in this population.

Local crime and substance use disorders: A comparison of midlife adults in the 1990s and 2000s

This study investigated how sociopolitical changes in the United States between the 1990s and 2000s may explain the increase in substance use disorders and reduced longevity in more recent cohorts of US midlife adults. The 2008 recession which drastically increased unemployment rates across the country may have had negative implications for downstream contextual and individual processes, including both local crime rates and substance use disorders. The Midlife in the United States Survey cohort (1995; n = 6148; 20–75 years) and the MIDUS Refresher cohort (2011; n = 3543; 23–76 years) reported on substance use disorders. These data were linked to Uniform Crime Reporting violent crime rates to determine whether associations between local crime and substance use disorders changed among two separate cohorts of US midlife adults assessed before or after the 2008 recession. In 1995, despite higher local crime rates, substance use disorders were not associated with local crime. The comparatively lower crime rates of 2011, however, associated with greater prevalence of substance use disorders. Considering unemployment rates from the Decennial Census and American Community Survey, which were substantially higher in 2011 relative to 1995, completely diminished the local crime rate-substance use disorder association. The increased prevalence of substance use disorders observed in the more recent cohort of midlife adults assessed in the current study may represent maladaptive coping to local crime after the 2008 recession.

“I feel like I'm always on edge”: Perceptions of parole supervision by parolees with substance use disorders

IntroductionWhile extant research has looked at parole and its various actors as an institution, few studies recount the parole experience from the perspective of parolees. Additionally, despite the prevalence of substance use disorders (SUDs) within the criminal justice system, research that assesses the additional challenges this population faces throughout parole supervision is even scarcer. MethodsTo address this gap, we analyze in-depth qualitative interviews (n = 51) conducted with reentering men with SUDs as they navigate parole in Pennsylvania. Three independent coders identified all narratives relating to a broad theme of “parole and probation experiences.” The authors then completed iterative rounds of more fine-grained independent coding within that theme. ResultsOur results emphasize that SUDs present a significant barrier to reentry success, and the tension of surveillance and revocation is amplified for those enduring simultaneous reentry and recovery. Importantly, our respondents regard parole officers more positively than they view parole as an institution, yet this perception of officers does not equate to provision of reintegration and recovery support. Respondents perceive that parole presents unnecessary additional hurdles to their reentry success, and their perceived risk level impacts their surveillance intensity. ConclusionsThe information gleaned through inclusion of perspectives from those enduring parole supervision calls for a critical assessment of current parole practices. Further, the current approach to SUDs within community supervision criminalizes relapse without provision of treatment resources or support.

The Nexus of Aging and Substance Use: A Scoping Review of Therapeutic Modalities for Geriatric Substance Use Disorders.

The insidious grip of substance use disorders (SUDs) manifests as a ubiquitous public health crisis, indiscriminately affecting individuals across the spectrum of age, gender, and socioeconomic status. While advancements in treatment offer a glimmer of hope, millions continue to grapple with the debilitating physical, psychological, and social consequences of addiction, particularly those involving alcohol and opioids. This crisis is further exacerbated by the alarming rise of SUDs among older adults. As the global population undergoes a process of demographic senescence, the escalating prevalence of SUDs in this demographic underscores the urgent need for nuanced interventions.This review explores the therapeutic landscape for managing SUDs in older adults, evaluating pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment modalities.A detailed literature search was conducted using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, and studies were selected based on their relevance to therapeutic interventions for older adults with SUDs, encompassing pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities. The synthesized results provide an extensive overview of contemporary therapeutic approaches. The findings indicate that pharmacological interventions demonstrate varied effectiveness in managing opioid and alcohol use disorders, with each drug offering distinct benefits and limitations regarding safety, tolerability, and patient adherence. Non-pharmacological interventions provide critical psychological and social support, often requiring adaptations to meet elderly patients' needs effectively. Integrated care models, which combine pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, emerge as the most effective approach, addressing the comprehensive needs of elderly patients by leveraging multidisciplinary teams, centralized service access, and coordinated, patient-centered care. Implementing these models, however, requires overcoming significant resource and coordination challenges. Indeed, the confluence of a burgeoning geriatric population and escalating rates of SUDs necessitates the development and implementation of granular and integrated care protocols specifically designed for older adults. By employing such a targeted approach, optimism can be cultivated and the quality of life enhanced for this vulnerable and often overlooked segment of society. This ensures the fight against addiction extends its reach, leaving no one behind.

The substance use disorder treatment gap among US college students: Findings from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

BackgroundSubstance use and substance use disorders (SUD) are prevalent among college students. Information about the gap between substance use treatment need versus treatment receipt can guide efforts to increase service access. This study examined past-year DSM-5 SUD and receipt of treatment among US college students. MethodsPast-year DSM-5 SUD and treatment receipt were estimated among a sample of 6115 college students aged 16 and older and a comparison group of non-students from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, weighted to be nationally representative. Among the college student sample, multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with past-year SUD. Bivariate analyses were used to compare socio-demographic and substance use differences between college students who received treatment and those who had an SUD but did not receive treatment. ResultsWeighted prevalence of past-year SUD among college students was 21.8 %. Only 4.6 % of students who had an SUD received treatment in any setting. Relative to non-students with SUD, proportionately fewer college students with SUD received treatment. Among college students, age, sex, past-year psychological distress, and past-year substance use were significantly associated with past-year SUD; and receipt of treatment differed significantly by age, insurance type, level of education, and enrollment status. College students who received treatment had greater prevalence of stimulant, opioid, tranquilizer, and poly-SUDs and more severe SUD symptomology than those who did not receive treatment. ConclusionAdditional efforts are needed to engage college students with SUDs in acceptable, evidence-based treatment services.

Investigation of prevalence of substance use disorders using direct and indirect methods and factors affecting initiation of substance use

ABSTRACT Background Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are among some of the major health problems in different societies, especially in Iran, resulting in devastating outcomes. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of SUDs using both direct and indirect (network scale-up (NUS) and cross-wise model (CM) methods and to identify the factors affecting initiation of substance use. Methods The study was conducted among people aged 15–69 years in Kermanshah, Iran, with a total of 6127 people selected utilizing a stratified sampling method. Results The prevalence of SUDs was estimated at 3.85% by direct CM, 11.05% by indirect CM and 10.07% by NUS. The results of multivariate logistic regression revealed that the most important factors in increasing the chance of substance use were history of substance use in the family, mental diseases, poor economic status, and age group of 31–45 years. Conclusion Regarding the almost three-fold prevalence of indirect methods for estimating the prevalence of SUDs compared to direct methods on the one hand and the high prevalence of substance use in the province on the other, special prevention health programs are required by considering the groups at risk.

Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Substance Use Disorder Risk Among People Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Enrolled in HIV Care in the United States: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis.

Rising overdose deaths globally and increased social isolation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have disproportionately impacted people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with substance use disorders (SUD). We examined trends in SUD risk among PWH before and after the COVID-19 shelter-in-place (SIP) mandate. Data were collected between 2018 and 2022 among PWH enrolled across 8 US sites in the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems cohort. We evaluated changes in moderate/high SUD risk after SIP using interrupted time series analyses. There were 7126 participants, including 21 741 SUD assessments. The median age was 51 (interquartile range, 39-58) years; 12% identified as Hispanic or Latino/Latina, 46% Black/African American, and 46% White. Moderate/high SUD risk increased continuously after the pandemic's onset, with 43% (95% confidence interval [CI], 40%-46%) endorsing moderate/high SUD risk post-SIP, compared to 24% (95% CI, 22%-26%) pre-SIP (P < .001). There were increases in the use of heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, and decreases in prescription opioids and sedatives post-SIP. Further, there was a decrease in reported substance use treatment post-SIP compared to pre-SIP (P = .025). The rising prevalence of SUD through late 2022 could be related to an increase in isolation and reduced access to substance use and HIV treatment caused by disruptions due to COVID-19. A renewed investment in integrated substance use treatment is vital to address the combined epidemics of substance use and HIV following the COVID-19 pandemic and to support resilience in the face of future disruptions.

Alcohol Use Disorders in Patients Suffering from Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Comorbidity in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is known, especially alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in OCD. Data are lacking regarding the prevalence, the obsessions and compulsions in people with OCD with comorbid alcohol use. Aims and Objectives: The aim was to study the prevalence of AUDs in people with OCD. The primary objective was to study the prevalence of AUDs in 100 people with OCD. Secondary objective was to study the clinical characteristics, obsessions, and compulsions of people with OCD and comorbid alcohol use. Settings and Designs: The study design was a cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: 100 patients of Asha Hospital diagnosed with OCD were screened and included in the study after a written informed consent. YBOCS checklist and scoring were done. People satisfying the criteria for AUD were further assessed with SADQ questionnaire. SPSS software was used for statistical analysis. Results and Conclusions: The lifetime prevalence of substance use disorders was found 18%. Point prevalence of any substance use was 13%, out of which 7% had AUDs. 2% had a dependence pattern and 5% had an abuse pattern. When comparing people with alcohol versus non-alcohol use, there was a significant difference in the proportion of males in the alcohol group (P = 0.0011). Nicotine was used in higher proportion in the alcohol group (P = 0.0001). Alcohol users were not regular with medications (P = 0.01). Miscellaneous obsessions are more common in them (P = 0.002). Alcohol users had a higher proportion of nil compulsions (P = 0.057) implying that obsessions were more prominent than compulsions in them. Mean scores of OCD in both groups were around moderate severity, with no significant difference between the two.

Survive or suffer: sustainability of addiction care curriculum/training in South African Universities

ABSTRACT South Africa is grappling with a significant challenge of high harmful substance use rates, a shortage of addiction care professionals, and an expanding treatment gap. In response, the Department of the Premier initiated a project in 2010 to revamp its approach to substance use treatment in the Western Cape. This endeavor led to the establishment of a postgraduate diploma in addictions (PGDIP) in collaboration with the Universities of Cape Town and Stellenbosch. The PGDIP aimed to enhance the expertise of healthcare professionals in evidence-based practices for substance use prevention and treatment. Despite the initial success of the program in upskilling professionals and improving addiction care quality, financial constraints threaten its continuity, hindering the upskilling of the addiction treatment workforce. The cessation of bursaries and the self-funding requirements pose challenges to training professionals in evidence-based approaches. The growing prevalence of substance use disorders in South Africa underscores the urgency of investing in addiction specialists to address the escalating demand for treatment services and the complex needs of individuals struggling with addiction. To avert a potential public health crisis, it is imperative for the country to prioritize the training of addiction practitioners and ensure standardized academic training to professionalize the addiction workforce.

Patterns and sociodemographic characteristics of substance abuse among hepatitis C virus-infected patients in Iraq: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSubstance use disorders are a widely recognized problem among hepatitis C-infected patients; moreover, substance abuse by intravenous injection is a common mode of transmission of the hepatitis C virus worldwide. The frequency of substance use disorders and their relation to hepatitis C infection are still unknown in Iraq. This cross-sectional study, conducted among a sample of hepatitis C- infected patients attending the Gastrointestinal Tract Center in Baghdad Medical City, aimed to examine the prevalence of substance use disorders, the sociodemographic characteristics of the abusers, and the relation between intravenous drug abuse and hepatitis C virus infection. All participants were subjected to an Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) questionnaire and a data form to determine sociodemographic characteristics and hepatitis C virus-related risk factors.ResultsIn a total of 300 hepatitis C virus-infected patients, the prevalence of substance use disorders was 53.6%. Among these patients, 43.6% abused nicotine, 6% abused licit drugs, and 4% abused alcohol. No one reported illicit drug abuse. Intravenous drug abuse was rare, and there was no relationship found between intravenous drug abuse and hepatitis C infection. Cupping (23%) and blood transfusion (20.3%) were both significantly associated with hepatitis C transmission in this study (p > 0.001).ConclusionThis study revealed a high prevalence (53.6%) of substance abuse in this sample of hepatitis C-infected patients, with nicotine being the most commonly abused substance. However, there was no relationship between hepatitis C infection and intravenous drug abuse. Common risk factors that might contribute to hepatitis C transmission among this population include cupping and blood transfusion.

Substance-Use Disorders in Critically Ill Patients: A Narrative Review.

Substance-use disorders (SUDs) represent a major public health concern. The increased prevalence of SUDs within the general population has led to more patients with SUD being admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) for an SUD-related condition or with SUD as a relevant comorbidity. Multiprofessional providers of critical care should be familiar with these disorders and their impact on critical illness. Management of critically ill patients with SUDs is complicated by both acute exposures leading to intoxication, the associated withdrawal syndrome(s), and the physiologic changes associated with chronic use that can cause, predispose patients to, and worsen the severity of other medical conditions. This article reviews the epidemiology of substance use in critically ill patients, discusses the identification and treatment of common intoxication and withdrawal syndromes, and provides evidence-based recommendations for the management of patients exposed to chronic use.

Gaining Recovery in Addiction for Community Elders (GRACE) Project: The Impact of Age-Specific Care on Clinical Outcomes and Health Care Resource Utilization in Older Adults With Substance Use Disorder in an Interprofessional Addiction Clinic.

The prevalence of substance use disorders (SUDs) in older adults has been increasing, necessitating tailored and effective addiction care for this aging demographic. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of age-specific, interprofessional addiction care on clinical outcomes and health care resource utilization in older adults with SUD. This quasi-experimental study directly compares patients enrolled in the Gaining Recovery in Addiction for Community Elders (GRACE) Project, an interprofessional age-specific addictions treatment program, with age-matched older adults who received conventional "treatment as usual" (TAU). Through retrospective comparative analysis, substance use outcomes, mental and physical health improvements, and inappropriate use of emergency services were examined among 78 older adults with SUD. Clinical outcomes and health care resource utilization were superior for older adults who received age-specific addictions care through the GRACE Project, as compared to mixed-age conventional "TAU." GRACE patients had improved treatment adherence, fewer relapses, and longer treatment engagement. While both groups exhibited significant reductions in depression and anxiety scores, GRACE patients showed greater improvements. This group demonstrated superior control of both hypertension and diabetes. Importantly, they had fewer inappropriate emergency department visits and avoidable hospitalizations than conventional "TAU." Addiction treatment delivered by an interprofessional team to meet the unique strengths and needs of older adults has the potential to improve treatment adherence and more favorable long-term outcomes in substance use, mental health, and chronic medical conditions. Nurses are poised to lead interprofessional teams to meet the growing demand for specialized addiction treatment and integrated care for older adults.

Innovative Rehabilitation Strategies for Chemical Dependency: Integrating Biochemical Insights and Psychosocial Approaches

Background: The increasing prevalence of substance use disorders underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the biochemical mechanisms underlying addiction, especially their impact on blood and genetic health. Chemical dependency not only affects physiological processes but also interacts with genetic predispositions, influencing the course and complications of addiction. Methods: This study investigates the relationship between chemical dependency, biochemical factors, and their implications for blood composition and genetic health. We examined how substance use disorders alter hematological profiles, affect hematopoiesis, and interact with genetic factors. The research involved analyzing changes in blood markers and genetic expressions related to addiction and recovery. Progressive rehabilitation techniques were evaluated for their effectiveness in addressing these issues. Results: Our findings reveal that chemical dependency significantly impacts blood composition, including alterations in hematological markers and disturbances in hematopoietic processes. Genetic factors were found to play a role in exacerbating addiction risks and health complications. Progressive rehabilitation techniques incorporating advancements in genetics and biochemistry were shown to improve outcomes by providing personalized interventions that address both physiological and psychological aspects of recovery. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of integrating biochemical and genetic assessments into rehabilitation programs to enhance the effectiveness of treatment. Personalized approaches that address the interplay between addiction, blood health, and genetic predispositions promote better psychosocial adaptation and biochemical stabilization. This comprehensive understanding contributes valuable insights into developing more effective rehabilitation practices, ultimately supporting improved mental health and overall well-being.

A systematic review of validity of US survey measures for assessing substance use and substance use disorders

BackgroundThe steep rise in substance use and substance use disorder (SUD) shows an urgency to assess its prevalence using valid measures. This systematic review summarizes the validity of measures to assess the prevalence of substance use and SUD in the US estimated in population and sub-population-based surveys.MethodsA literature search was performed using nine online databases. Studies were included in the review if they were published in English and tested the validity of substance use and SUD measures among US adults at the general or sub-population level. Independent reviews were conducted by the authors to complete data synthesis and assess the risk of bias.ResultsOverall, 46 studies validating substance use/SUD (n = 46) measures were included in this review, in which 63% were conducted in clinical settings and 89% assessed the validity of SUD measures. Among the studies that assessed SUD screening measures, 78% examined a generic SUD measure, and the rest screened for specific disorders. Almost every study used a different survey measure. Overall, sensitivity and specificity tests were conducted in over a third of the studies for validation, and 10 studies used receiver operating characteristics curve.ConclusionFindings suggest a lack of standardized methods in surveys measuring and reporting prevalence of substance use/SUD among US adults. It highlights a critical need to develop short measures for assessing SUD that do not require lengthy, time-consuming data collection that would be difficult to incorporate into population-based surveys assessing a multitude of health dimensions.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42022298280.

Substance use disorders and disparities in hispanic and non-hispanic older adults

BackgroundThe global longevity revolution increased the older adult population, posing unique health and economic challenges with implications for healthcare, especially substance use disorders (SUD). MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of United States older adults, Hispanic and non-Hispanic, who got at least one mental and/or behavioral disorder diagnosis between 2017 and 2021 at age 65 or older. SUD prevalence, prescription frequency changes over time, and comorbidities associated with each medication were compared. ResultsElectronic health records for 356,133 older adults (110,236 Hispanics and 245,897 non-Hispanics) were analyzed. Notably, 79 % of Hispanics fell below the 100 % federal poverty level, compared to 60 % of non-Hispanics (P<.001). Non-Hispanics also had significantly more average encounters (P=.003) and diagnoses (P<.001). Regression analysis on alcohol-related disorders indicated that the odd ratios of being male (OR=2.93, P<.000), and having low income (OR=1.62, P<.000), increase the odds for this SUD, while being Hispanic and primarily speaking Spanish decreases the odds for all SUDs considered in this study. ConclusionsThis cohort study revealed significant disparities related to social determinants of health between Hispanic and non-Hispanic older adults and emphasizes the need for continuous surveillance of older adults as with SUDs. Differences in comorbidity patterns imply distinct risk factors within each population, influenced by demographic-specific elements. Recognizing these variations is essential for tailoring culturally sensitive prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies to each population's unique needs.

Asynchronous online training increased knowledge, confidence, and intent to screen and treat substance use disorders among primary care clinicians practicing in Texas

IntroductionDespite increasing prevalence of substance use disorders (SUD), few patients are diagnosed and treated in primary care settings. This study evaluated changes in knowledge, confidence, and intention to implement screening and brief intervention (SBI) and SUD treatment after clinicians participated in an asynchronous online education course. MethodsA self-selected sample of primary care clinicians in Texas participated in online SBI and SUD education March 2021–July 2023. Baseline and post-training surveys evaluated changes in knowledge, confidence, and intent to implement SBI and SUD treatment. Changes were compared using paired t-tests. Multivariable linear regression examined factors potentially associated with confidence and intention to implement changes. Clinician feedback regarding the course was included. ResultsOf 613 respondents, 50.9% were practicing family medicine clinicians. Knowledge of adolescent screening tools increased from 21.9% to 75.7% (p < 0.001). Knowledge about the number of drinks that define excessive drinking among non-pregnant women increased from 24.5% at baseline to 64.9% (p < 0.001). Clinicians reported lowest confidence in providing opioid use disorder pharmacotherapy, which improved after program participation. Intent to implement SBI and medication for alcohol, nicotine and opioid use disorders increased (p < 0.001) after training. No factors were associated with change in confidence or intention to implement in multivariable models (p > 0.05). Satisfaction was high and nearly 60% reported intention to change their clinical practice because of the program. ConclusionKnowledge, confidence, and intent to implement SBI and SUD treatment increased after completing the online course. Clinician satisfaction was high and demonstrated improved intention to implement SBI and SUD treatment.

No change in substance use disorders or overdose after implementation of state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

BackgroundInadequate income is associated with higher likelihood of experiencing a substance use disorder (SUD). This study tests whether the earned income tax credit (EITC), which issues supplemental income for workers with children in the U.S., is associated with lower rates of SUD and fatal overdose. MethodsWe examined the effects of state-level refundable EITC presence and generosity (i.e., state EITC rate as a % of federal rate) on SUD-related outcomes (SUD prevalence and intentional and unintentional fatal overdose) using a difference-in-difference methodology, with both two-way fixed-effects models and event study plots. Several sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of findings. Five data sources were used to create a combined state-level longitudinal dataset. ResultsWe did not find significant effects of refundable EITC presence or generosity on unintentional or intentional fatal overdose or SUD prevalence in two-way models. Event study models detected a very slight upward shift in SUD prevalence following refundable EITC implementation (not seen in sensitivity analyses) and no significant effects of EITC implementation on any of the fatal overdose outcomes. ConclusionsEvidence regarding income support programs is being highly sought by policy makers as income support programs have become increasingly popular policy levers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study indicates EITC policies likely have no impact on SUD or overdose, however, other income support programs without family restrictions are important to investigate further.

Factors Associated with Substance Use Disorder among High-Need Adolescents and Young Adults in North Carolina.

Prevalence of substance use disorders (SUD) is high among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with complex medical needs. Little is known about risk factors for SUD in this population. This retrospective cohort study used electronic health record data from a large academic hospital system (2015-2019) to identify adolescents (aged 10-17) and young adults (aged 18-27) with intellectual/developmental disorders, psychiatric conditions, or complex medical conditions. Logistic regression was used to identify demographic, clinical, and neighborhood-level risk factors associated with SUD in this population. A total of 149 adolescents and 536 young adults had a SUD diagnosis (6.7% and 20.6%, respectively). Among adolescents, notable risk factors for SUD included age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.31, 1.54]), Hispanic ethnicity (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI = [1.10, 3.99]), additional psychoactive medication classes (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI = [1.11, 1.46]), and living in a "high" child opportunity index (COI) (aOR = 2.06, 95% CI [1.02, 4.14]) or a "very high" COI (aOR = 3.04, 95% CI [1.56,5.95]) area. Among young adults, notable risk factors included being male (aOR = 2.41, 95% CI [1.91, 3.05]), being Black (aOR = 1.64, 95% CI [1.28, 2.09]), and additional non-psychoactive (aOR = 1.07, 95% CI [1.03, 1.11]) or psychoactive medication classes (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI [1.07, 1.28]). These descriptive analyses are limited to one large academic hospital system in North Carolina and may not be representative of all high-need AYAs in the state. Several demographic, clinical, and neighborhood risk factors are associated with SUD in high-need AYAs.

Gender differences in illicit drug access, use and use disorder: Analysis of National Survey on Drug Use and Health data

Although gender differences in the prevalence of substance use disorders (SUD) have been well-characterized, little is known about when gender differences emerge along the continuum of substance use. Understanding the contribution of gender to risk at key transition points across this continuum is needed to identify potential mechanisms underlying gender differences and to inform improved gender-responsive interventions. To characterize gender differences in the progression of cannabis, cocaine, and heroin use, the current study used data from the United States-based 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health to quantify gender differences in: (1) perceived access to drugs, (2) lifetime drug use among individuals with at least some access, and (3) past-year SUD among those who had ever used each drug. Logistic regressions were conducted for each drug to examine gender differences across all three stages, controlling for sociodemographic factors and survey year. Compared to women, men had higher odds of reporting access to and lifetime use of all three drug types. Men also had higher odds of past-year cannabis and cocaine use disorders compared to women. Results suggest gender differences emerge in the earliest stage of drug use (access) and may accumulate across the stages of use. The magnitude of gender differences varied across stages, with the largest differences observed for odds of drug initiation among those with perceived access to each drug. Longitudinal data will be needed to confirm these findings and to provide insight into potential contributors to gender-specific risk and intervention targets across the continuum of drug use severity.