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Veldhuis CB, Kreski NT, Usseglio J, Keyes KM. Are Cisgender Women and Transgender and Nonbinary People Drinking More During the COVID-19 Pandemic? It Depends. Alcohol Res 2023; 43:05. [PMID: 38170029 PMCID: PMC10760999 DOI: 10.35946/arcr.v43.1.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This narrative review of research conducted during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic examines whether alcohol use among cisgender women and transgender and nonbinary people increased during the pandemic. The overarching goal of the review is to inform intervention and prevention efforts to halt the narrowing of gender-related differences in alcohol use. SEARCH METHODS Eight databases (PubMed, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Gender Studies Database, GenderWatch, and Web of Science) were searched for peer-reviewed literature, published between March 2020 and July 2022, that reported gender differences or findings specific to women, transgender or nonbinary people, and alcohol use during the pandemic. The search focused on studies conducted in the United States and excluded qualitative research. SEARCH RESULTS A total 4,132 records were identified, including 400 duplicates. Of the remaining 3,732 unique records for consideration in the review, 51 were ultimately included. Overall, most studies found increases in alcohol use as well as gender differences in alcohol use, with cisgender women experiencing the most serious consequences. The findings for transgender and nonbinary people were equivocal due to the dearth of research and because many studies aggregated across gender. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use by cisgender women seems to have increased during the pandemic; however, sizable limitations need to be considered, particularly the low number of studies on alcohol use during the pandemic that analyzed gender differences. This is of concern as gender differences in alcohol use had been narrowing before the pandemic; and this review suggests the gap has narrowed even further. Cisgender women and transgender and nonbinary people have experienced sizable stressors during the pandemic; thus, understanding the health and health behavior impacts of these stressors is critical to preventing the worsening of problematic alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy B Veldhuis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Noah T Kreski
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - John Usseglio
- Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, Columbia Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Katherine M Keyes
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
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Houghtaling LM, Manning WD, Dush CMK. Coping Patterns During the COVID-19 Pandemic by Sexual and Gender Identity. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023:1-21. [PMID: 37782080 PMCID: PMC10985047 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2023.2260920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
National polls have shown that COVID-19 has been highly stressful, negatively affecting well-being and life satisfaction overall, but few studies have focused on individuals with sexual and gender diverse identities. Pandemic-related stress may increase engagement in adverse or negative health-related coping behaviors and decrease engagement in positive coping strategies, potentially exacerbating existing LGBTQ+ health disparities. Relying on a nationally representative population-based sample, we examine disparities in rates of negative and positive COVID-19 coping behaviors by sexual and gender identities. Using Poisson regression models adjusted for key sociodemographic and pandemic related factors, we found higher rates of negative and positive coping behaviors among certain sexual and gender diverse groups compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Specifically, we find that lesbian and gay respondents reported more positive and negative coping strategies compared to heterosexual persons. We also found higher rates of negative coping behaviors among plurisexual (bisexual, pansexual, omnisexual) and noncisgender adults (transgender or other nonbinary gender identity) compared to heterosexual and cisgender adults, respectively. We contribute to prior studies by focusing on both negative and positive pandemic related coping among sexually and gender diverse populations. These responses to the pandemic may have long-term implications for the health and well-being of sexual and gender diverse individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M. Houghtaling
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 300 West Bank Office Building, 1300 S. 2 St., Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - Wendy D. Manning
- Department of Sociology and Center for Family and Demographic Research, Bowling Green State University, Williams Hall, Bowling Green, Ohio 43408, USA
| | - Claire M. Kamp Dush
- Department of Sociology, University of Minnesota, 1031 Social Sciences Building, 267 19 Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Connolly DJ, Eraslan E, Gilchrist G. Coronavirus (COVID-19) and sexualised drug use among men who have sex with men: a systematic review. Sex Health 2023; 20:375-384. [PMID: 37460309 DOI: 10.1071/sh23071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Drug-related harms, including harms from sexualised drug use (SDU), are disproportionately experienced by sexual and gender minority people, relative to their majority counterparts. Chemsex, a type of SDU practiced mainly by MSM, is associated with methamphetamine use and increased HIV seropositivity or risk of acquisition. Therefore, participants are at increased risk of immunocompromise. Existing evidence suggests that drug use increases following natural disasters. The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on chemsex is unknown. A PRISMA-adherent systematic review was conducted to synthesise reports of changes in the prevalence, frequency, or characteristics of drug use (and factors associated with these changes) following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This report presents findings related to SDU/chemsex among MSM. A comprehensive search across nine databases, supplemented with backward-forward citation searching and contact with key opinion leaders, was conducted. Two reviewers carried out title-abstract screening, full-text screening, and data extraction. Following a final, single database search, nine studies were included in the narrative synthesis. More than half the sample were studies investigating HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Twenty percent of participants in most studies reported chemsex participation. In four, participants reported a net increase or maintenance of chemsex participation during the pandemic and five reported a net decrease. Increased chemsex participation was associated with loneliness, cravings, and working during the pandemic. Decreased chemsex practice was associated with COVID-19-related fear. This synthesis suggests that chemsex practice continued, and for some MSM increased, throughout COVID-19 pandemic 'lockdowns'. This may have increased COVID-19 transmission and severity among potentially vulnerable MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean J Connolly
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Windsor Walk, London, UK
| | - Ece Eraslan
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Windsor Walk, London, UK
| | - Gail Gilchrist
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Windsor Walk, London, UK
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Parker J, Kaur S, Medalla JM, Imbert-Sanchez A, Bautista J. Dietary trends among young adults during the COVID-19 lockdown: socioeconomic and gender disparities. BMC Nutr 2023; 9:107. [PMID: 37749620 PMCID: PMC10519054 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-023-00759-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthy eating is vital to well-being and during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was especially important for boosting immunity and protecting against viral infections. Yet, by many accounts, keeping a nutritious diet was a casualty of the pandemic rather than a means to fight it. Young adults experienced disproportionate pandemic-related disruptions during a formative stage of development while little is still known about dietary outcomes. METHODS We employed a cross-sectional design to examine dietary disparities targeting young adults (ages 18-28) during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Participants (N = 254) responded to a 15-20-min online survey with questions related to food composition and sources of food, perceptions of healthy eating, weight change, physical activity, and food insecurity. Comparisons were made by household income and gender. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate factors that predicted perceptions of healthy eating behaviors while controlling for other sociodemographic factors. RESULTS A clear overall trend toward unhealthy behaviors was found while positive changes were also identified. Consumption of junk food significantly increased (+ 3%), 40% gained weight, a third were less active, and 5-8% were food insecure on a regular basis. Meanwhile, eating food from restaurants declined and, for some, home-based cooking increased. Lower income participants were overly represented in unhealthy changes and higher income participants were disproportionately represented in healthy changes. Males reported more changes in dietary composition while females reported more fluctuation in weight. Reduced activity, weight gain, and food insecurity predicted unhealthy eating behaviors. Living with friend(s)/roommate(s) predicted healthier eating, but only among lower income participants. CONCLUSIONS It is recommended that pandemic minded public health interventions account for negative dietary trends with particular attention to low-income young adults. Solutions should be geared toward reshaping fiscal, social and physical environments, rather than relying solely on behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Parker
- Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA.
| | - Simranpreet Kaur
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - John Marlo Medalla
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - Anairobi Imbert-Sanchez
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - Jeanette Bautista
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
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Fahey KML, Kovacek K, Abramovich A, Dermody SS. Substance use prevalence, patterns, and correlates in transgender and gender diverse youth: A scoping review. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 250:110880. [PMID: 37480799 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults are at elevated risk of problematic substance use. While understanding substance use disparities in TGD youth is crucial for informing early preventions, there is no known synthesis of prevalence and correlates of substance use in TGD youth. The objectives of this study were to: 1) describe the prevalence and patterns of substance use in TGD youth, 2) identify and evaluate potential correlates of substance use, and 3) report the strengths and limitations of the current literature in recommendation of future steps. A PRISMA-guided systematic search was conducted to identify 55 studies that reported prevalence, patterns, or correlates of substance use in TGD youth aged 10-24 years; were published in the English language; and followed a quantitative design. Fifty-four (98.18%) studies examined prevalence and patterns, 23 (41.82%) examined correlates, and 12 (21.82%) examined moderators and mediators of substance use in TGD youth. Findings suggest TGD youth exhibit a moderate-to-high prevalence of recent substance use, including alcohol (23-31%), binge drinking (11-59%), cigarettes (10-59%), e-cigarettes (17-27%), and marijuana (17-46%). Additionally, results supported that greater victimization experiences, including those related and unrelated to being a gender minority, were associated with increased substance use risk. Few studies examined polysubstance use, resilience, and protective factors, or considered TGD subgroup differences, which we recommend in future research. Further, we recommend improving population-based surveys to better capture gender identity and related experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alex Abramovich
- University of Toronto, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
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Peyer KL, Hogg JA, Carlson LM, Sa J. The relationship between physical activity, stress, and resilience in sexual and gender minority college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37607032 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2248508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the role of sexual orientation and gender identity in the relationship between physical activity (PA), stress and resilience. PARTICIPANTS A nationally-representative sample of students (n = 91,718) from United States postsecondary institutions. METHODS Students reported aerobic and strength training (ST) behaviors, stress, resilience, gender identity and sexual orientation. Moderated regressions examined the influence of gender identity and sexual orientation on the relationship between PA and stress or resilience. RESULTS Men and heterosexual students reported higher PA and resilience and lower stress than did women, gender minorities, and sexual minorities. Significant moderation was found for women, queer students, bisexual students, trans women and lesbians in the various models. CONCLUSIONS Gender minority and sexual minority students display poorer levels of PA and mental health than cisgender and heterosexual counterparts, but this relationship varies by identity group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karissa L Peyer
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer A Hogg
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lynette M Carlson
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jaesin Sa
- School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, Texas Women's University, Denton, Texas, USA
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Pelham WE, Tapert SF, Zúñiga ML, Thompson WK, Wade NE, Gonzalez MR, Patel H, Baker FC, Dowling GJ, Van Rinsveld AM, Baskin-Sommers A, Kiss O, Brown SA. Pandemic-Related Changes in the Prevalence of Early Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Use, 2020-2021: Data From a Multisite Cohort Study. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:338-346. [PMID: 37191599 PMCID: PMC10186567 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evaluate changes in early adolescent substance use from May 2020 to May 2021 during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic using data from a prospective nationwide cohort: the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study. METHODS In 2018-2019, 9,270 youth aged 11.5-13.0 completed a prepandemic assessment of past-month alcohol and drug use, then up to seven during-pandemic assessments between May 2020 and May 2021. We compared the prevalence of substance use among same-age youth across these eight timepoints. RESULTS Pandemic-related decreases in the past-month prevalence of alcohol use were detectable in May 2020, grew larger over time, and remained substantial in May 2021 (0.3% vs. 3.2% prepandemic, p <.001). Pandemic-related increases in inhalant use (p = .04) and prescription drug misuse (p < .001) were detectable in May 2020, shrunk over time, and were smaller but still detectable in May 2021(0.1%-0.2% vs. 0% pre-pandemic). Pandemic-related increases in nicotine use were detectable between May 2020 and March 2021 and no longer significantly different from prepandemic levels in May 2021 (0.5% vs. 0.2% prepandemic, p = .09). There was significant heterogeneity in pandemic-related change in substance use at some timepoints, with increased rates among youth identified as Black or Hispanic or in lower-income families versus stable or decreased rates among youth identified as White or in higher-income families. DISCUSSION Among youth ages 11.5-13.0 years old, rates of alcohol use remained dramatically reduced in May 2021 relative to prepandemic and rates of prescription drug misuse and inhalant use remained modestly increased. Differences remained despite the partial restoration of prepandemic life, raising questions about whether youth who spent early adolescence under pandemic conditions may exhibit persistently different patterns of substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Pelham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California.
| | - Susan F Tapert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - María Luisa Zúñiga
- School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | | | - Natasha E Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Marybel R Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Herry Patel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fiona C Baker
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California
| | | | | | | | - Orsolya Kiss
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California
| | - Sandra A Brown
- Department of Psychology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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Results from an LGBTQ+ Community Health Needs Assessment in Nassau and Suffolk Counties of New York State. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:855-868. [PMID: 36780090 PMCID: PMC9923637 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-022-01069-8] [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: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
LGBTQ+ individuals experience health care disparities and difficulty accessing affirming care. Little is known regarding the health and experiences among subpopulations of specific sexual orientations and gender identities (SOGI). We implemented the first LGBTQ + health needs assessment survey in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, New York, to assess individuals' health care experiences, behaviors, access to care, and health care needs. The sample (N = 1150) consisted of many SOGI subgroups. Greater than 60% of respondents reported symptoms of chronic depression; over one third reported disrespectful health care experiences; and two thirds experienced verbal harassment. Bisexual/bicurious, pansexual, queer, gender nonconforming and transgender individuals experienced highest rates of mental health concerns and difficulty accessing care. Behavioral health concerns were also high among Black, multiracial, Hispanic, Asian, young adult, and lower-income respondents. Gaining an understanding of unique differences among LGBTQ+ subgroups can guide implementation of services targeting specific subpopulations to improve access to care and reduce disparities.
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Essemiah J, Fryz R, Olson R, Timmol F, Upton E, Fateye B. How are students coping one year after the COVID-19 lockdown? A photoelicitation project. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-13. [PMID: 36595564 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2151841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To understand how students are coping one year after campuses were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants: Students at a large state university in Midwestern USA. Method: Sequential mixed method study. A photo-survey of students' experiences was conducted as part of an ethnographic study of "college life." Student researchers and faculty collaboratively analyzed photos and accompanying text for coping strategies. Association of coping strategies with respondents' characteristics was assessed with inferential statistics. Results: Most respondents alluded to the negative mental toll of the pandemic and predominantly utilized emotion-focused coping strategies. Non-binary students and students who lived off but close to campus appeared to have fewer coping strategies than their peers. Conclusion: The experiences of diverse student sub-populations differ. Photos give researchers a unique vista into students' experiences. Students - as co-researchers - can help campuses understand the stresses associated with their college experiences and how they are coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Essemiah
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
| | - Rylin Fryz
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
| | - Reilly Olson
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
| | - Farrah Timmol
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
| | - Easton Upton
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
| | - Babasola Fateye
- Biomedical Science Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
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Undelikwo VA, Shilton S, Folayan MO, Alaba O, Reipold EI, Martínez-Pérez GZ. COVID-19 self-testing in Nigeria: Stakeholders' opinions and perspectives on its value for case detection. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282570. [PMID: 37053243 PMCID: PMC10101386 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 testing coverage is limited in Nigeria. Access to rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen-detection self-testing kits may help improve the detection of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic cases and increase the country's low rate of SARS-CoV-2 testing. Before implementing self-testing in Nigeria, assessing the population's perceptions regarding this approach is imperative. In mid-2021, an exploratory cross-sectional qualitative research was conducted to investigate stakeholders' values and preferences for SARS-CoV-2 self-testing in Nigeria. METHODS In-person and online semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with healthcare workers, representatives of civil society, and potential implementors of self-testing delivery programs were used to explore values and perceptions around access to conventional provider-initiated COVID-19 testing. Topics included the public's values in relation to SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, the safe and effective use of SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, and likely actions upon receiving a positive SARS-CoV-2 self-test result. A thematic analysis approach was applied. RESULTS The 58 informants (29 female) reported that Nigeria has limited availability of conventional provider-delivered SARS-CoV-2 testing. While just a few informants were familiar with SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, they generally supported using self-testing as an approach that they felt could assist with early case detection and improve access to testing. Concerns relating to the use of self-testing mainly related to the ability of low-literate individuals to use and interpret the self-tests, the affordability of self-tests, equity of access, and the availability of healthcare system support for those who self-test positive. CONCLUSION Although the Nigerian public perceive multiple benefits associated with access to SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, the perceived inefficiency of the national health service delivery system may limit the access of users of the kits to psychosocial and clinical support. Nevertheless, in Nigeria, where COVID-19 vaccine coverage is low and the risk of further waves of COVID-19 is high, self-testing may assist in the prompt detection of cases and contribute to halting the spread of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica A Undelikwo
- Department of Sociology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Oluwatoyin Alaba
- Institute of Public Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
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Changes in sexual identity and substance use during young adulthood. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 241:109674. [PMID: 36332590 PMCID: PMC9994583 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual identity is dynamic, and changes in identity (e.g., from heterosexual to lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer [LGBQ+]) are common during young adulthood. It is not well-understood how sexual identity changes may be associated with substance use risk. METHODS Two waves of data (baseline: October, 2018-October, 2019; follow-up: May-October, 2020) were used from a prospective cohort of young adults (N = 1896; mean age=21.2). Frequency of past 30-day use and new initiation of five substance use outcomes (alcohol, any tobacco, e-cigarettes, cannabis, illicit drugs) were compared across four groups: consistently heterosexual (N = 1567), consistently LGBQ+ (N = 244), heterosexual to LGBQ+ (N = 65), and LGBQ+ to heterosexual (N = 20). RESULTS Consistently LGBQ+ (vs. consistently heterosexual) participants reported greater frequency of past 30-day use of alcohol (aOR=1.34, 95% CI=1.04-1.72), any tobacco products (aOR=1.88, CI=1.34-2.63), e-cigarettes (aOR=1.49, CI=1.01-2.19), cannabis (aOR=1.36, CI=1.01-1.84), and illicit drugs (aOR=2.84, CI=1.77-4.56). Heterosexual to LGBQ+ (vs. consistently heterosexual) participants reported greater frequency of past 30-day use of any tobacco products (aOR=1.87, CI=1.06-3.33) and illicit drugs (aOR=2.48, CI=1.10-5.62), and had greater risk of initiating alcohol (aRR=1.82, CI=1.02-3.25) and cannabis use (aRR=2.90, CI=1.81-4.64). LGBQ+ to heterosexual (vs. consistently LGBQ+) participants reported lower frequency of past 30-day use of alcohol (aOR=0.35, CI=0.14-0.88) and any tobacco products (aOR=0.15, CI=0.03-0.80). CONCLUSIONS Identifying as LGBQ+ was associated with increased risk for frequent substance use, and newly adopting an LGBQ+ identity was associated with increased risk for new substance use initiation. Prevention and treatment interventions may need to tailor messaging to young people who have newly adopted an LGBQ+ identity.
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Ford CA. The Journal of Adolescent Health's Editor-in-Chief's Annual Reflection: A Year of Endurance and Looking Toward the Future. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:1-3. [PMID: 35718386 PMCID: PMC9212740 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Tucker JS, Dunbar MS, Perez LG, Seelam R, Troxel WM, Davis JP, D’Amico EJ. Young Adults' Perceived Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Sleep and Other Functioning: Does It Differ for Sexual/Gender and Racial/Ethnic Minorities? Behav Sleep Med 2022; 20:294-303. [PMID: 35642294 PMCID: PMC9162434 DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2022.2075366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been concern that the pandemic and associated mitigation efforts would have a particularly adverse effect on communities that are marginalized. This study examined disparities in the perceived impacts of the pandemic on sleep, mental and physical health, social functioning, and substance use among young adults based on sexual/gender minority (SGM) status and race/ethnicity. METHOD Participants were 2,411 young adults (mean age = 23.6) surveyed between July 2020-July 2021. A linear regression analysis tested SGM and racial/ethnic group differences on 17 outcomes. RESULTS Most young adults reported little-to-no effect of the pandemic on sleep or other indicators of health and functioning. However, SGM young adults reported more adverse effects than non-SGM young adults on their sleep and most other outcomes. Hispanic young adults reported shorter sleep duration - but less pandemic-related depression, loneliness, and relationship problems - compared to non-Hispanic white young adults. We found no evidence that young adults with multiple minority statuses had especially poor pandemic-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS While most young adults did not perceive much impact of the pandemic, results highlight disparities across certain demographic subgroups that may need to be addressed through targeted interventions and close monitoring for long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael S. Dunbar
- RAND Corporation, 4750 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | | | | | - Wendy M. Troxel
- RAND Corporation, 4750 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jordan P. Davis
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society, USC Center for Mindfulness Science, USC Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California
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Marmet S, Wicki M, Gmel G, Gachoud C, Bertholet N, Studer J. Sexual Minority Orientation Is Associated With Greater Psychological Impact Due to the COVID-19 Crisis-Evidence From a Longitudinal Cohort Study of Young Swiss Men. Front Public Health 2021; 9:692884. [PMID: 34746075 PMCID: PMC8570433 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.692884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and its countermeasures may have had a significant impact on the psychological well-being of specific population subgroups. The present study investigated whether sexual minority men (defined here as attracted partly or exclusively to men) from an ongoing cohort study of young Swiss men experienced different psychological impacts, levels of substance use and addictive behaviors, and to which degree pre-existing vulnerabilities and participants experiences during the crisis might explain these differences. Methods: An ongoing cohort sample based on the general population of young Swiss men (mean age = 29.07 years; SD = 1.27) was assessed before and during the COVID-19 crisis for depression, stress, sleep quality, substance use and addictive behaviors. Additionally, during the crisis, we assessed its impact in form of fear, isolation and traumatic experiences. Potential associations between these outcomes and sexual orientation (sexual minority vs. heterosexual) were tested using linear regression models. It was additionally estimated to which degree these associations were attenuated if adjusted for differences in mental health, personality and socioeconomic status before the crisis, as well as the experience of the COVID-19 crisis (infection with the virus and changes to work situation). Results: Compared to heterosexual men, sexual minority men showed higher levels of psychological trauma (b = 0.37 [0.25, 0.49]), fear (b = 0.18 [0.06, 0.30]) and isolation (b = 0.32 [0.20, 0.44]) due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as higher levels of depression (b = 0.31 [0.20, 0.41]) and lower sleep quality (b = −0.13 [−0.24, −0.02]) during the crisis. These differences were to a large degree explained by higher pre-crisis levels of mental health problems and the personality dimension of neuroticism-anxiety. Sexual minority men showed higher overall levels of substance use and addictive behaviors, but these differences were already present before the crisis. Conclusion: The COVID-19 crisis may have worsened pre-existing vulnerabilities in sexual minority men, leading to its greater psychological impact on them than on heterosexual men. Reducing minority stress due to sexual orientation may help not only to improve mental health among important proportions of the population but also to reduce their vulnerability to crises. Services offering psychological support to sexual minorities may need to be reinforced during crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Marmet
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Wicki
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Gmel
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Céline Gachoud
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Bertholet
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph Studer
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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