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Irwin AN, Gray M, Ventricelli D, Boggis JS, Bratberg J, Floyd AS, Silcox J, Hartung DM, Green TC. "I go out of my way to give them an extra smile now:" A study of pharmacists who participated in Respond to Prevent, a community pharmacy intervention to accelerate provision of harm reduction materials. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:512-519. [PMID: 38395644 PMCID: PMC10981567 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacies are well-positioned to improve the health of people with opioid use disorder and who use drugs by providing naloxone and other essential public health supplies. Respond to Prevent (R2P) is a clinical trial which sought to accelerate provision of harm reduction materials through a multicomponent intervention that included in-store materials, online training, and academic detailing. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to explore pharmacists' attitudes, knowledge, and experiences in providing naloxone, dispensing buprenorphine, and selling nonprescription syringes following participation in the R2P program. METHODS Two online asynchronous focus groups were conducted with community-based chain pharmacists across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Oregon, and Washington who had participated in the R2P program. Participants accessed an online repository of group interview items and responded to questions over a short period. Each pharmacist participated anonymously for approximately 30 min over 2 ½ days. Pharmacists answered questions on experiences with pharmacy-based harm reduction care and R2P intervention implementation barriers and facilitators. Qualitative data analysis was conducted by a multidisciplinary team using an immersion-crystallization approach. RESULTS A total of 32 pharmacists participated in the two focus groups. Most participants were female (n = 18, 56%), non-Hispanic (n = 29, 91%), and white (n = 17, 53%). Four major themes were identified related to (1) addressing bias and stigma toward people with opioid use disorder and who use drugs, (2) familiarity and comfort with naloxone provision, (3) perspective and practice shifts in nonprescription syringe sales, (4) structural challenges to harm reduction care in the pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacists across the four states identified attitudes, knowledge, and experiences that create barriers to providing care to people with opioid use disorder and who use drugs. R2P approaches and tools were effective at reducing stigma and changing attitudes but were less effective at addressing structural challenges from the pharmacists' perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriane N Irwin
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | | | - Daniel Ventricelli
- Indivior, Inc., North Chesterfield, VA, USA; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy at University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jesse S Boggis
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, USA; Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Heller School for Social Policy & Management at Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bratberg
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Anthony S Floyd
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joseph Silcox
- Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Heller School for Social Policy & Management at Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA; Department of Sociology, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel M Hartung
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Traci C Green
- Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Heller School for Social Policy & Management at Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA; Departments of Emergency Medicine and Epidemiology, Brown Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
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Moazen B, Stöver H. Needle and syringe programs in prisons: Does it really matter? J Community Psychol 2024; 52:611-612. [PMID: 38348871 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Babak Moazen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Heino Stöver
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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Riggs KR, Kertesz SG. Illuminating the Consequentialist Logic of Harm Reduction After Overdose Through a Hypothetical Randomized Trial. Am J Bioeth 2024; 24:45-48. [PMID: 38635430 PMCID: PMC11034905 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2024.2327277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R. Riggs
- Division of Preventive Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Stefan G. Kertesz
- Division of Preventive Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
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Noggle B, Ball KM, Vansickel AR, Noggle B. A reduced exposure heated tobacco product was introduced then abruptly taken off United States shelves: results from a tobacco harm reduction natural experiment. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:84. [PMID: 38659033 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01000-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A heated tobacco product (HTP) authorized for purchase in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration as a reduced harm product was removed from the market after about 2 years of sales. Adults who used the HTP were surveyed to determine the impact of the introduction and removal of the HTP on past and current tobacco behaviors. METHODS Adults who were using the HTP before its United States market removal (n = 502) completed a cross-sectional online survey to determine their tobacco use behaviors at three timepoints: prior to HTP initiation, just before HTP market removal, and at the time of the survey which was administered approximately 10 months post-removal. Descriptive statistics summarized outcome variables and paired bivariate testing was used to compare percent change between timepoints. Multivariable logistic regression and general linear models estimated associations of tobacco use behaviors and cigarette consumption. RESULTS Overall, significantly fewer adults consumed cigarettes while using HTP than before they tried the product (63.0% vs. 89.9%, p value < 0.0001) and the number of cigarettes consumed per week (CPW) decreased (106.3-39.0, p value < 0.0001). After HTP removal, the percent of adults who consumed cigarettes increased non-significantly (63.0-67.5%, p value = 0.0544) while CPW increased significantly (39.0-76.6 CPW, p value < 0.0001). At the time of the survey, over 25% of the sample continued to use the HTP and 7.2% reported use of no tobacco products. Electronic nicotine delivery system use had increased significantly from the prior period (27.4% increase, p value < 0.0001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates reduction or elimination of combustible cigarette smoking while adults were using HTPs and some increased smoking after market removal, albeit at lower levels. If unable to find satisfying alternatives, adults who smoke and transition to reduced harm products may return to smoking or purchase products illicitly if their preferred products are removed from the regulated market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Noggle
- Center for Research and Technology, Altria Client Services LLC, 601 East Jackson Street, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | - Kevin M Ball
- Center for Research and Technology, Altria Client Services LLC, 601 East Jackson Street, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | - Andrea Rae Vansickel
- Center for Research and Technology, Altria Client Services LLC, 601 East Jackson Street, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | - Brendan Noggle
- Center for Research and Technology, Altria Client Services LLC, 601 East Jackson Street, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA.
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Ezell JM, Pho MT, Simek E, Ajayi BP, Shetty N, Walters SM. How do people who use opioids express their qualities and capacities? An assessment of attitudes, behaviors, and opportunities. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:79. [PMID: 38589920 PMCID: PMC11000313 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00981-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
People who nonmedically use drugs (PWUD) face intricate social issues that suppress self-actualization, communal integration, and overall health and wellness. "Strengths-based" approaches, an under-used pedagogy and practice in addiction medicine, underscore the significance of identifying and recognizing the inherent and acquired skills, attributes, and capacities of PWUD. A strengths-based approach engenders client affirmation and improves their capacity to reduce drug use-related harms by leveraging existing capabilities. Exploring this paradigm, we conducted and analyzed interviews with 46 PWUD who were clients at syringe services programs in New York City and rural southern Illinois, two areas with elevated rates of opioid-related morbidity and mortality, to assess respondents' perceived strengths. We located two primary thematic modalities in which strengths-based ethos is expressed: individuals (1) being and advocate and resource for harm reduction knowledge and practices and (2) engaging in acts of continuous self-actualization. These dynamics demonstrate PWUD strengths populating and manifesting in complex ways that both affirm and challenge humanist and biomedical notions of individual agency, as PWUD refract enacted, anticipated, and perceived stigmas. In conclusion, programs that blend evidence-based, systems-level interventions on drug use stigma and disenfranchisement with meso and micro-level strengths-based interventions that affirm and leverage personal identity, decision-making capacity, and endemic knowledge may help disrupt health promotion cleavages among PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel M Ezell
- Community Health Sciences, Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elinor Simek
- Community Health Sciences, Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Netra Shetty
- Biology and Society, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Suzan M Walters
- Department of Population Health at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Yach D. WHO should embrace tobacco harm reduction to save lives. Lancet 2024; 403:1334-1335. [PMID: 38582554 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00245-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Derek Yach
- Global Health Strategies, Southport, CT 06890-3033, USA.
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Sibley AL, Klein E, Cooper HLF, Livingston MD, Baker R, Walters SM, Gicquelais RE, Ruderman SA, Friedmann PD, Jenkins WD, Go VF, Miller WC, Westergaard RP, Crane HM. The relationship between felt stigma and non-fatal overdose among rural people who use drugs. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:77. [PMID: 38582851 PMCID: PMC10998326 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00988-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug overdose deaths in the United States exceeded 100,000 in 2021 and 2022. Substance use stigma is a major barrier to treatment and harm reduction utilization and is a priority target in ending the overdose epidemic. However, little is known about the relationship between stigma and overdose, especially in rural areas. We aimed to characterize the association between felt stigma and non-fatal overdose in a multi-state sample of rural-dwelling people who use drugs. METHODS Between January 2018 and March 2020, 2,608 people reporting past 30-day opioid use were recruited via modified chain-referral sampling in rural areas across 10 states. Participants completed a computer-assisted survey of substance use and substance-related attitudes, behaviors, and experiences. We used multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations to test the association between felt stigma and recent non-fatal overdose. RESULTS 6.6% of participants (n = 173) reported an overdose in the past 30 days. Recent non-fatal overdose was significantly associated with felt stigma after adjusting for demographic and substance use-related covariates (aOR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.20-1.81). The association remained significant in sensitivity analyses on component fear of enacted stigma items (aOR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.20-1.83) and an internalized stigma item (aOR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.07-2.14). CONCLUSIONS Felt stigma related to substance use is associated with higher risk of non-fatal overdose in rural-dwelling people who use drugs. Stigma reduction interventions and tailored services for those experiencing high stigma are underutilized approaches that may mitigate overdose risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adams L Sibley
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Emma Klein
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Melvin D Livingston
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Robin Baker
- OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, 1810 SW 5th Ave, Suite 510, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Suzan M Walters
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, 180 Madison, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Rachel E Gicquelais
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 4257 Signe Skott Cooper Hall, 701 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Stephanie A Ruderman
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9th Ave, Box 359931, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter D Friedmann
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate and Baystate Health, 3601 Main St, Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
| | - Wiley D Jenkins
- Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 201 E Madison Street, Springfield, IL, 62702, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - William C Miller
- Department of Epidemiology, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, CB#8050, 3rd Floor Carolina Square, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516, USA
| | - Ryan P Westergaard
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Avenue, 5th Floor, Madison, WI, 53705-2281, USA
| | - Heidi M Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Mail Stop 359931, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
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Haddad R, Dagenais C, Huynh C, Fallu JS. Facilitators of and barriers to healthcare providers' adoption of harm reduction in cannabis use: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078427. [PMID: 38580357 PMCID: PMC11002399 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The high prevalence of cannabis use and the potential for negative effects indicate the need for effective prevention strategies and treatment of people who use cannabis. Studies show that harm reduction (HR) in cannabis use is effective in minimising the harmful consequences of the substance. However, health professionals often misunderstand it and resist its adoption due to various obstacles. To our knowledge, there has been no review of the scientific literature on the factors that facilitate or hinder practitioners' adoption of HR in cannabis use. To fill this gap, we aim to identify, through a scoping review, facilitators and barriers to healthcare providers' adoption of HR in cannabis use in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Our methodology will be guided by the six-step model initially proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). The search strategy will be executed on different databases (Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, Sociological Abstracts, Érudit, BASE, Google Web and Google Scholar) and will cover articles published between 1990 and October 2022. Empirical studies published in French or English in an OECD country and identifying factors that facilitate or hinder healthcare providers' adoption of HR in cannabis use, will be included. Reference lists of the selected articles as well as relevant systematic reviews will be scanned to identify any missed publications by the electronic searches. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required. The results will be disseminated through various activities (eg, publication in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, webinars and knowledge translation activities). The results will also allow us to conduct a future study aiming to develop and implement a knowledge translation process among healthcare practitioners working with youth in Quebec in order to enhance their adoption of HR in cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Haddad
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christian Dagenais
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christophe Huynh
- University Institute on Addictions, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Fallu
- University Institute on Addictions, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Psychoeducation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Erath TG, LaCroix R, O'Keefe E, Higgins ST, Rawson RA. Substance use patterns, sociodemographics, and health profiles of harm reduction service recipients in Burlington, Vermont. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:76. [PMID: 38580997 PMCID: PMC10998322 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00995-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding current substance use practices is critical to reduce and prevent overdose deaths among individuals at increased risk including persons who use and inject drugs. Because individuals participating in harm reduction and syringe service programs are actively using drugs and vary in treatment participation, information on their current drug use and preferred drugs provides a unique window into the drug use ecology of communities that can inform future intervention services and treatment provision. METHODS Between March and June 2023, 150 participants in a harm reduction program in Burlington, Vermont completed a survey examining sociodemographics; treatment and medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) status; substance use; injection information; overdose information; and mental health, medical, and health information. Descriptive analyses assessed overall findings. Comparisons between primary drug subgroups (stimulants, opioids, stimulants-opioids) of past-three-month drug use and treatment participation were analyzed using chi-square and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Most participants reported being unhoused or unstable housing (80.7%) and unemployed (64.0%) or on disability (21.3%). The drug with the greatest proportion of participants reporting past three-month use was crack cocaine (83.3%). Fentanyl use was reported by 69.3% of participants and xylazine by 38.0% of participants. High rates of stimulant use were reported across all participants independent of whether stimulants were a participant's primary drug. Fentanyl, heroin, and xylazine use was less common in the stimulants subgroup compared to opioid-containing subgroups (p < .001). Current- and past-year MOUD treatment was reported by 58.0% and 77.3% of participants. Emergency rooms were the most common past-year medical treatment location (48.7%; M = 2.72 visits). CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate high rates of polysubstance use and the underrecognized effects of stimulant use among people who use drugs-including its notable and increasing role in drug-overdose deaths. Crack cocaine was the most used stimulant, a geographical difference from much of the US where methamphetamine is most common. With the increasing prevalence of fentanyl-adulterated stimulants and differences in opioid use observed between subgroups, these findings highlight the importance and necessity of harm reduction interventions (e.g., drug checking services, fentanyl test strips) and effective treatment for individuals using stimulants alongside MOUD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler G Erath
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Burlington, VT, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, University Health Center, 1 S. Prospect St., Burlington, VT, 05401, USA.
| | | | - Erin O'Keefe
- Howard Center Safe Recovery, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Stephen T Higgins
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, University Health Center, 1 S. Prospect St., Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
- Center on Rural Addictions, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Richard A Rawson
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, University Health Center, 1 S. Prospect St., Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
- Center on Rural Addictions, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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Panda UK, Sahoo SS, Samantaray S. " Harm reduction approach for tuberculosis and substance use disorders: A review of approaches and implications in the Indian context". Indian J Tuberc 2024; 71:219-224. [PMID: 38589127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijtb.2023.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
There are limitations to traditional treatment approaches in addressing the needs of individuals with dual comorbidity of TB and SUD. The concept of harm reduction as a distinct approach to addressing substance use, focusing on minimising the negative consequences associated with it rather than advocating for complete abstinence. Different harm reduction strategies, such as opioid substitution therapy, needle and syringe programmes, testing for viral infections etc. have been effectively employed for SUDs in past. Similarly, TB risk minimization approaches like improving housing and nutrition and focused testing strategies are considered as harm reduction strategies for TB management. The relationship between tuberculosis (TB) and substance use disorders (SUDs) involves a complex interplay of biopsychosocial factors. It is crucial to prioritise integrated and closely monitored care in order to address the treatment challenges and potential drug interactions that may arise. In light of the acknowledged challenges like limited awareness, infrastructure, drug resistance, and stigma, it is imperative to explore potential avenues for the implementation of harm reduction strategies targeting individuals with comorbid TB and SUD in India. Potential strategies for addressing the issue includes a range of measures, such as augmenting investments in healthcare, integrating policies, tackling social determinants, and establishing shared platforms for psychosocial rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udit Kumar Panda
- Department of Psychiatry, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.
| | - Soumya Swaroop Sahoo
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, 151001, India
| | - Swayanka Samantaray
- Department of Psychiatry, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
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Chatterjee A, Baker T, Rudorf M, Walt G, Stotz C, Martin A, Kinnard EN, McAlearney AS, Bosak J, Medley B, Pinkhover A, Taylor JL, Samet JH, Lunze K. Mobile treatment for opioid use disorder: Implementation of community-based, same-day medication access interventions. J Subst Use Addict Treat 2024; 159:209272. [PMID: 38128649 PMCID: PMC10947870 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) are lifesaving, but <20 % of individuals in the US who could benefit receive them. As part of the NIH-supported HEALing Communities Study (HCS), coalitions in several communities in Massachusetts and Ohio implemented mobile MOUD programs to overcome barriers to MOUD receipt. We defined mobile MOUD programs as units that provide same-day access to MOUD at remote sites. We aimed to (1) document the design and organizational structure of mobile programs providing same-day or next-day MOUD, and (2) explore the barriers and facilitators to implementation as well as the successes and challenges of ongoing operation. METHODS Program staff from five programs in two states (n = 11) participated in semi-structured interviews. Two authors conducted thematic analysis of the transcripts based on the domains of the social-ecological model and the semi-structured interview guide. RESULTS Mobile MOUD units sought to improve immediate access to MOUD ("Our answer is pretty much always, 'Yes, we'll get you started right here, right now,'"), advance equity ("making sure that we have staff who speak other languages, who are on the unit and have some resources that are in different languages,"), and decrease opioid overdose deaths. Salient program characteristics included diverse staff, including staff with lived experience of substance use ("She just had that personal knowledge of where we should be going"). Mobile units offered harm reduction services, broad medical services (in particular, wound care), and connection to transportation programs and incorporated consistency in service provision and telemedicine access. Implementation facilitators included trusting relationships with partner organizations (particularly pharmacies and correctional facilities), nuanced understanding of local politics, advertising, protocol flexibility, and on-unit prescriber hours. Barriers included unclear licensing requirements, staffing shortages and competing priorities for staff, funding challenges due to inconsistency in grant funding and low reimbursement ("It's not really possible that billing in and of itself is going to be able to sustain it"), and community stigma toward addiction services generally. CONCLUSIONS Despite organizational, community, and policy barriers, participants described mobile MOUD units as an innovative way to expand access to life-saving medications, promote equity in MOUD treatment, and overcome stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Chatterjee
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Trevor Baker
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Maria Rudorf
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Galya Walt
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Caroline Stotz
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Anna Martin
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | - Ann Scheck McAlearney
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Julie Bosak
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Bethany Medley
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Allyson Pinkhover
- Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, Brockton, MA, United States of America; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Jessica L Taylor
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey H Samet
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Karsten Lunze
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Debenham J, Birrell L, Champion KE, Newton N. An on-line school-based substance use harm reduction programme: The Illicit Project randomized controlled trial results. Addiction 2024; 119:741-752. [PMID: 38105000 DOI: 10.1111/add.16403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to measure the effectiveness of an on-line, neuroscience-based harm reduction intervention (The Illicit Project) on substance use, harms and knowledge over a 12-month period. DESIGN We used a two-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial. SETTING The study was conducted at eight secondary schools across New South Wales, Australia. PARTICIPANTS A total of 950 (mean age = 15.9; standard deviation = 0.68) in grades 10-12 at participating schools in 2020 took part. INTERVENTION AND COMPARATOR The Illicit Project intervention group (schools = five, n = 681) received an on-line, universal substance use and harm reduction programme over three classes. The active control group (schools = three, n = 269) received school-based health education as usual. MEASUREMENTS Self-report questionnaires assessed primary [alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), cocaine and prescription drug misuse] and secondary outcomes (alcohol-related harms and drug literacy) at baseline and the 6- and 12-month follow-up assessment. FINDINGS Approximately 63% (n = 595) of the sample completed the 12-month follow-up assessment, including 58% of the intervention group (n = 396/679) and 66% of the active control group (n = 179/271). Participants in the intervention group had slower annual increases in binge drinking [odds ratio (OR) = 0.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.12-0.89], nicotine use (OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.52-1.23), MDMA use (OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.02-1.00), cocaine use (OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.01-0.64) and prescription drug misuse (OR = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.01-0.54) compared with the active control group. There was limited evidence of an intervention effect on cannabis use and alcohol-related harm (P > 0.5). The secondary outcomes showed that the intervention group maintained higher levels of drug literacy knowledge (β = 3.71, 95% CI = 1.86-5.56) and harm reduction help-seeking skills (β = 1.55, 95% CI = 0.62-2.48) compared with the active control group. CONCLUSION The Illicit Project (an on-line, neuroscience-based substance use harm reduction intervention) was effective in slowing the uptake of risky substance use and improving drug literacy skills among late secondary school students in Australia, compared with school-based health education as usual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Debenham
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Louise Birrell
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katrina E Champion
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola Newton
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Westafer LM, Beck SA, Simon C, Potee B, Soares WE, Schoenfeld EM. Barriers and Facilitators to Harm Reduction for Opioid Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study of People With Lived Experience. Ann Emerg Med 2024; 83:340-350. [PMID: 38180403 PMCID: PMC10960719 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2023.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Although an increasing number of emergency departments (ED) offer opioid agonist treatment, naloxone, and other harm reduction measures, little is known about patient perspectives on harm reduction practices delivered in the ED. The objective of this study was to identify patient-focused barriers and facilitators to harm reduction strategies in the ED. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with a convenience sample of individuals in Massachusetts diagnosed with opioid use disorder. We developed an interview guide, and interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an iterative process using reflexive thematic analysis. After initial interviews and coding, we triangulated the results among a focus group of 4 individuals with lived experience. RESULTS We interviewed 25 participants with opioid use disorder, 6 recruited from 1 ED and 19 recruited from opioid agonist treatment clinics. Key themes included accessibility of harm reduction supplies, lack of self-care resulting from withdrawal and hopelessness, the impact of stigma on the likelihood of using harm reduction practices, habit and knowledge, as well as the need for user-centered harm reduction interventions. CONCLUSION In this study, people with lived experience discussed the characteristics and need for user-centered harm reduction strategies in the ED that centered on reducing stigma, treatment of withdrawal, and availability of harm reduction materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Westafer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA; Department for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA.
| | | | - Caty Simon
- National Survivors Union, Greensboro, NC; Whose Corner Is It Anyway, Holyoke, MA
| | | | - William E Soares
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA; Department for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | - Elizabeth M Schoenfeld
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA; Department for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
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14
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Sibley AL, Colston DC, Go VF. Interventions to reduce self-stigma in people who use drugs: A systematic review. J Subst Use Addict Treat 2024; 159:209284. [PMID: 38159909 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use stigma is a key barrier to treatment and harm reduction engagement among people who use drugs (PWUD). Previous systematic reviews have focused on interventions to reduce stigma in healthcare providers and the public; less is known about interventions to address self-stigma among PWUD. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the evidence for substance use self-stigma reduction interventions. METHODS We reviewed English-language studies published between 2011 and 2023 using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (PROSPERO #CRD42022321305). We searched seven bibliographic databases (PubMed; SCOPUS; APA PsycInfo; CINAHL; Social Work Abstracts; Sociological Abstracts; ProQuest Dissertations & Theses). This review included studies if 1) they evaluated the effectiveness of a psychosocial intervention, 2) participants were PWUD, 3) authors reported self-stigma as a primary outcome, 4) the study design was experimental or quasi-experimental. We reviewed, interpreted and reported intervention characteristics and effectiveness using narrative synthesis. We assessed study quality with the Downs & Black checklist. RESULTS Among 1195 screened studies, 15 met the inclusion criteria (N = 2280 PWUD). We categorized the interventions according to three approaches: psychotherapeutic (n = 8), psychoeducational (n = 5), and multimodal (n = 2). Most interventions were delivered in clinical settings (n = 11) and in a group format (n = 13). Study quality was fair-to-good and included nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and six quasi-experiments. Measurement heterogeneity was high, with 11 different stigma-related scales used across the 15 studies. Eleven studies showed significant favorable effects in at least one stigma measure. Six of these demonstrated positive effects in all stigma measures. Evidence was mixed for all three intervention categories; however, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, a form of group psychotherapy, demonstrated effectiveness in four of five RCTs incorporating this approach. CONCLUSIONS Overall, there is promising evidence for the effectiveness of substance use self-stigma interventions, although more studies are needed to determine which approaches are most effective. Consistent conceptualization and measurement of self-stigma across studies will improve comparability in future intervention trials. Current offerings are largely limited to clinical settings and group-based formats; self-help interventions, available for other stigmatized conditions, could be developed to serve the majority of PWUD not engaged in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adams L Sibley
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - David C Colston
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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15
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Watson MC, Neil KE. Our leaders must urgently implement comprehensive policies to reduce harm caused by homelessness. BMJ 2024; 384:q651. [PMID: 38531595 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Craig Watson
- Institute of Health Promotion and Education, Fairbank House, Altrincham, Cheshire, UK
| | - Karen E Neil
- Institute of Health Promotion and Education, Fairbank House, Altrincham, Cheshire, UK
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16
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Bartholomew TS, Plesons M, Serota DP, Alonso E, Metsch LR, Feaster DJ, Ucha J, Suarez E, Forrest DW, Chueng TA, Ciraldo K, Brooks J, Smith JD, Barocas JA, Tookes HE. Project CHARIOT: study protocol for a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation study of comprehensive tele- harm reduction for engagement of people who inject drugs in HIV prevention services. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:21. [PMID: 38528570 PMCID: PMC10964520 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00447-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) remain a high priority population under the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative with 11% of new HIV infections attributable to injection drug use. There is a critical need for innovative, efficacious, scalable, and community-driven models of healthcare in non-stigmatizing settings for PWID. We seek to test a Comprehensive-TeleHarm Reduction (C-THR) intervention for HIV prevention services delivered via a syringe services program (SSP). METHODS The CHARIOT trial is a hybrid type I effectiveness-implementation study using a parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial design. Participants (i.e., PWID; n = 350) will be recruited from a syringe services program (SSP) in Miami, Florida. Participants will be randomized to receive either C-THR or non-SSP clinic referral and patient navigation. The objectives are: (1) to determine if the C-THR intervention increases engagement in HIV prevention (i.e., HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis; PrEP or medications for opioid use disorder; MOUD) compared to non-SSP clinic referral and patient navigation, (2) to examine the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the C-THR intervention, and (3) to assess the barriers and facilitators to implementation and sustainment of the C-THR intervention. The co-primary outcomes are PrEP or MOUD engagement across follow-up at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. For PrEP, engagement is confirmed by tenofovir on dried blood spot or cabotegravir injection within the previous 8 weeks. For MOUD, engagement is defined as screening positive for norbuprenorphine or methadone on urine drug screen; or naltrexone or buprenorphine injection within the previous 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes include PrEP adherence, engagement in HCV treatment and sustained virologic response, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The short and long term cost-effectiveness analyses and mixed-methods implementation evaluation will provide compelling data on the sustainability and possible impact of C-THR on comprehensive HIV prevention delivered via SSPs. DISCUSSION The CHARIOT trial will be the first to our knowledge to test the efficacy of an innovative, peer-led telehealth intervention with PWID at risk for HIV delivered via an SSP. This innovative healthcare model seeks to transform the way PWID access care by bypassing the traditional healthcare system, reducing multi-level barriers to care, and meeting PWID where they are. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05897099. Trial registry name: Comprehensive HIV and Harm Prevention Via Telehealth (CHARIOT). Registration date: 06/12/2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Bartholomew
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Marina Plesons
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - David P Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Alonso
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Lisa R Metsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Biostatistics Division, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jessica Ucha
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Edward Suarez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Anthropology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Teresa A Chueng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Katrina Ciraldo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jimmie Brooks
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Justin D Smith
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Joshua A Barocas
- Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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17
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Johnson B, Monwell B, Capusan AJ. Long-acting injectable depot buprenorphine from a harm reduction perspective in patients with ongoing substance use and multiple psychiatric comorbidities: a qualitative interview study. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:68. [PMID: 38528531 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00984-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-acting injectable depot buprenorphine may increase access to opioid agonist treatment (OAT) for patients with opioid use disorder in different treatment phases. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of depot buprenorphine among Swedish patients with ongoing substance use and multiple psychiatric comorbidities. METHOD Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with OAT patients with experience of depot buprenorphine. Recruitment took place at two OAT clinics with a harm reduction focus, specializing in the treatment of patients with ongoing substance use and multiple comorbidities. Nineteen participants were included, 12 men and seven women, with a mean age of 41 years (range 24-56 years), and a mean of 21 years (5-35 years) of experience with illicit substance use. All participants had ongoing substance use and psychiatric comorbidities such as ADHD, anxiety, mood, psychotic and eating disorders. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Thematic content analysis was conducted both manually and using qualitative data analysis software. RESULTS Participants reported social benefits and positive changes in self-perception and identity. In particular, depot buprenorphine contributed to a realization that it was possible to make life changes and engage in activities not related to substance use. Another positive aspect that emerged from the interviews was a noticeable relief from perceived pressure to divert OAT medication, while some expressed the lack of income from diverted oral/sublingual OAT medication as a negative, but still acceptable, consequence of the depot buprenorphine. Many participants considered that the information provided prior to starting depot buprenorphine was insufficient. Also, not all patients found depot buprenorphine suitable, and those who experienced coercion exhibited particularly negative attitudes towards the medication. CONCLUSIONS OAT patients with ongoing substance use and multiple psychiatric comorbidities reported clear benefits of depot buprenorphine, including changes in self-perception which has been theorized to play an important role in recovery. Clinicians should consider the specific information needs of this population and the extensive diversion of traditional OAT medications in this population to improve the treatment experience and outcomes. Overall, depot buprenorphine is a valuable treatment option for a population in need of harm reduction and may also contribute to psychological changes that may facilitate recovery in those with the greatest need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Johnson
- School of Social Work, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Bodil Monwell
- Department of Psychiatry, County Hospital Jönköping, Jönköping, Sweden
- Department of Social Work, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Andrea Johansson Capusan
- Department of Psychiatry in Linköping, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Wheaton J, Ford B, Nairn A, Collard S. Towards a conceptual framework for the prevention of gambling-related harms: Findings from a scoping review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298005. [PMID: 38517885 PMCID: PMC10959398 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The global gambling sector has grown significantly over recent years due to liberal deregulation and digital transformation. Likewise, concerns around gambling-related harms-experienced by individuals, their families, their local communities or societies-have also developed, with growing calls that they should be addressed by a public health approach. A public health approach towards gambling-related harms requires a multifaceted strategy, comprising initiatives promoting health protection, harm minimization and health surveillance across different strata of society. However, there is little research exploring how a public health approach to gambling-related harms can learn from similar approaches to other potentially harmful but legal sectors such as the alcohol sector, the tobacco sector, and the high in fat, salt and sugar product sector. Therefore, this paper presents a conceptual framework that was developed following a scoping review of public health approaches towards the above sectors. Specifically, we synthesize strategies from each sector to develop an overarching set of public health goals and strategies which-when interlinked and incorporated with a socio-ecological model-can be deployed by a range of stakeholders, including academics and treatment providers, to minimise gambling-related harms. We demonstrate the significance of the conceptual framework by highlighting its use in mapping initiatives as well as unifying stakeholders towards the minimization of gambling-related harms, and the protection of communities and societies alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Wheaton
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Ford
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Psychological Sciences, School of Natural and Social Sciences, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
- The Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Agnes Nairn
- University of Bristol Business School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon Collard
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Whelan J, Noller G, Ward RD. Harm reduction behaviours and harm experiences of people who use 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:67. [PMID: 38515184 PMCID: PMC10956294 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00979-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is drug of high prevalence in Aotearoa New Zealand and is the primary drug analysed by legal drug checking services. We aimed to address the gap in literature pertaining to MDMA-related harm reduction behaviour and harm experiences within the country. METHODS An online survey was used to assess the harm reduction behaviours (e.g., limiting consumption, planning use, seeking information) of people who use MDMA, in addition to their use of reagent testing and the major national drug checking and harm reduction service, KnowYourStuffNZ. RESULTS In total, 915 people completed the survey (60.7% females, aged 18-65, median = 24, IQR = 20-28). Frequency of various MDMA-related harm reduction behaviours differed, although these were carried out relatively frequently by most participants. Those who reported experiencing harm (physical, psychological, spiritual, social) from MDMA, or another drug presumed to be MDMA, reported less frequent harm reduction behaviours than non-harmed consumers. Reagent testing of MDMA had been conducted by 42.3% of the sample. Approximately 27% of the sample had used KnowYourStuffNZ services. Of KnowYourStuffNZ clients, 95.9% reported learning about harm reduction, and 53.3% reported changing their behaviour because of the service. Reasons for not using the KnowYourStuffNZ service were primarily lack of availability in local area (32.8%) or at relevant events (51.8%), and lack of concern with substance quality (29.8%). MDMA harm was reported by 14.4% of the sample, whilst reported harm was more common from consumption of presumably non-MDMA substances, self-reported as being mistaken for MDMA. Harm was primarily physical or psychological. Potential MDMA dependence was apparent in 6.9% of the sample. CONCLUSIONS The findings highlight potential targets for harm reduction education and interventions and emphasize the need for greater availability of readily accessible drug checking services in Aotearoa New Zealand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Whelan
- Deparment of Psychology, The University of Otago, William James Building, Level 1, 275 Leith Walk, Ōtepoti/Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | - Geoff Noller
- Department of General Practice and Rural Health, Dunedin School of Medicine, The University of Otago, Ōtepoti/Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ryan D Ward
- Deparment of Psychology, The University of Otago, William James Building, Level 1, 275 Leith Walk, Ōtepoti/Dunedin, New Zealand
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Katanoda K, Togawa K, Nakamura M. [Is "tobacco harm reduction" possible? Other countries' experiences and perspectives, and how they could inform tobacco control in Japan]. Nihon Koshu Eisei Zasshi 2024; 71:141-152. [PMID: 38123330 DOI: 10.11236/jph.23-076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
"Tobacco harm reduction" is defined as a method to minimize harm and risk of death and disease without eliminating tobacco and nicotine use. In Japan, where heated tobacco products (HTPs) are prevalent, the tobacco industry is progressively endorsing the concept of "tobacco harm reduction." Therefore, stakeholders in tobacco control must urgently share perspectives and experiences surrounding this issue. This discussion paper aimed to propose four requirements for effectively implementing "tobacco harm reduction" as a public health measure: (1) disease risk reduction, (2) cigarette smoking cessation, (3) no additional public health concerns, and (4) regulatory authorities held by health agencies, and compile information on them regarding nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and HTPs. Another aim was to summarize policies related to "tobacco harm reduction" adopted by an international organization (World Health Organization (WHO) and health authorities in foreign countries (the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Australia, Italy, and the Republic of Korea) to explore the implications of these requirements on Japan's approach. Regarding the first three requirements, scientific evidence indicated that e-cigarettes offers some level of risk reduction and can assist with cigarette smoking cessation. The potential uptake of e-cigarettes among youth and their possibility to serve as a gateway to combusted cigarette use is a concern, though a definitive causal link is yet to be established between the uptake of e-cigarette in youth and the subsequent use of different tobacco products. There is insufficient scientific evidence for any of the three requirements for HTPs. Regarding the official policies, WHO took the position that the same regulations should be applied to all tobacco products. Only the UK and USA officially established a health system based on the concept of "tobacco harm reduction"; even in Italy and the Republic of Korea, where HTPs are relatively widespread, health authorities denied any risk reduction by introducing HTPs. The UK officially adopted a smoking cessation policy with e-cigarettes. The USA established a modified risk tobacco product system under federal legislation enacted in 2009, whereas of June 2023, no HTP or e-cigarettes were recognized as explicitly reducing health risk. Regarding the fourth requirement, the UK and USA institutionalized "tobacco harm reduction" under health authorities' regulation independent of the tobacco industry. The introduction of a tobacco harm reduction policy in Japan should be considered only in line with health authorities' regulation and implementation of comprehensive tobacco control measures independent of the tobacco industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Katanoda
- Division of Population Data Science, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control
| | - Kayo Togawa
- Division of Population Data Science, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control
| | - Masakazu Nakamura
- Health Promotion Research Center, Japan Association for Development of Community Medicine
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Pacheco Gallego MC, Farber HJ. The Evidence of Electronic Cigarettes for Harm Reduction Is Not There. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 209:758-759. [PMID: 38271700 PMCID: PMC10945058 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202310-1804le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel C. Pacheco Gallego
- Internal Medicine and Pulmonology, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Pereira, Colombia
- Pulmonology, Fundación Universitaria Visión de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
- Department of Smoking Cessation, Asociación Latinoamericana del Tórax, Uruguay; and
| | - Harold J. Farber
- Department of Smoking Cessation, Asociación Latinoamericana del Tórax, Uruguay; and
- Pulmonary Division, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas
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Warp PV, Hauschild M, Serota DP, Ciraldo K, Cruz I, Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE. A confirmed case of xylazine-induced skin ulcers in a person who injects drugs in Miami, Florida, USA. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:64. [PMID: 38491467 PMCID: PMC10941577 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00978-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xylazine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that has emerged as a contaminant in the illicit drug supply of fentanyl. Xylazine use may be suspected in naloxone-resistant overdoses and atypical, chronic wounds in people who use drugs (PWUD). This case is unique because it is the first case to our knowledge describing wound care for a xylazine-induced wound with a confirmatory xylazine test strip (XTS) in the setting of a syringe services program (SSP) and in the state of Florida. CASE PRESENTATION A 43-year-old woman with a past medical history of severe opioid use disorder and stimulant use disorder presented to a student-run clinic at a Miami SSP for wound care. She had multiple ulcerations diffusely over her bilateral forearms with surrounding erythema and warmth. Seven weeks later, she presented to clinic again for wound care because her wounds had progressed. At this visit, a XTS was used to confirm the presence of xylazine in her urine. Wound care management and harm reduction strategies employed at both visits were informed by best clinical judgement due to lack of formal guidelines at the time. Wound outcomes are unknown as the patient has not returned to clinic. CONCLUSIONS Many PWUD at highest risk for acute and chronic health consequences of xylazine-adulterated fentanyl do not have access to healthcare outside of low barrier clinics and SSPs due to lack of insurance or mistrust of the traditional healthcare system due to stigma. There is an urgent need for access to XTS for PWUD and clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of xylazine-related wounds in outpatient clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyton V Warp
- Department of Medical Education, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Suite 1149, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Maia Hauschild
- Department of Medical Education, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Suite 1149, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - David P Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Katrina Ciraldo
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Irasema Cruz
- IDEA Exchange, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tyler S Bartholomew
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Gozdzialski L, Louw R, Kielty C, Margolese A, Poarch E, Sherman M, Cameron F, Gill C, Wallace B, Hore D. Beyond a spec: assessing heterogeneity in the unregulated opioid supply. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:63. [PMID: 38491435 PMCID: PMC10941387 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00980-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug checking services aim to provide compositional information for the illicit drug supply and are being employed in public health responses to extreme rates of overdose associated with fentanyl within street opioids. The technologies used within these services range from basic qualitative tests, such as immunoassay test strips, to comprehensive quantitative analyses, such as mass spectrometry. In general, there is concern that heterogeneity of a drug mixture adds significant uncertainty when using drug checking results based on a small subsamples. The presence of hot spots of active drug components in this context is often termed the 'chocolate chip cookie effect'. Establishing the limitations of the service are essential for interpretation of the results. METHODS This study assesses the consequence of drug heterogeneity and sampling of consumer level opioid purchased in Victoria, British Columbia ( n = 21 , 50-100 mg each) on quantitative fentanyl results determined from testing with paper spray mass spectrometry. RESULTS Using descriptive statistics, such as relative standard deviation and interquartile range, the results demonstrate varied distributions of fentanyl concentrations within a single drug batch. However, the presence of hot spots, defined as outliers, were relatively rare. CONCLUSIONS This study found that the variability in fentanyl concentration from drug heterogeneity and sampling is greater than that attributed to the analytical technique. On a practical level, this provides data to help guide communication of limitations of drug checking services, supporting the aim of trust and transparency between services and people who use drugs. However, if drug checking services continue to be restricted from fully engaging with the reality of manufacturing, buying, selling, mixing and dosing practices, the accuracy, usefulness, and impact will always be limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Gozdzialski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Rebecca Louw
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Collin Kielty
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Ava Margolese
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Eric Poarch
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Miriam Sherman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | | | - Chris Gill
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
- Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, V9R 5S5, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, 98195, USA
| | - Bruce Wallace
- School of Social Work, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Dennis Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada.
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8N 5M8, Canada.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 3P6, Canada.
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Piatkowski T, Benn S, Ayurzana L, King M, McMillan S, Hattingh L. Exploring the role of community pharmacies as a harm reduction environment for anabolic-androgenic steroid consumers: triangulating the perspectives of consumers and pharmacists. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:59. [PMID: 38481218 PMCID: PMC10935940 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00972-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While community pharmacies have been successful in providing harm reduction support for illicit substance consumers, little research has explored their role in addressing the needs of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) consumers. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to triangulate the attitudes and experiences of AAS consumers and community pharmacist's regarding AAS harm reduction. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with AAS consumers (n = 8) and community pharmacists (n = 15) between December 2022 and August 2023 in Australia. Interview data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS While consumers emphasised easy access to pharmacies, particularly in urban areas, challenges were noted in rural regions. AAS consumers expressed a preference for community pharmacies, perceiving them as less confronting and a feasible avenue for accessing professional advice, highlighting the potential role of pharmacists in nurturing therapeutic alliances with AAS consumers. Similarly, pharmacists expressed receptivity to providing harm reduction information but acknowledged knowledge gaps, suggesting a need for tailored education programs to support AAS consumers effectively. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacies can be an important environment for AAS harm reduction. Strategies include utilising private spaces for open discussions with AAS consumers and enhancing pharmacists' understanding of AAS to foster trust and support. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and training needs for pharmacy staff, with the aim of creating a safer environment for AAS consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Piatkowski
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
- Griffith Centre for Mental Health, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Sarah Benn
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Lkhagvadulam Ayurzana
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Michelle King
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Sara McMillan
- Griffith Centre for Mental Health, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Laetitia Hattingh
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Pharmacy Department, Gold Coast Health, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
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Duhart Clarke SE, Victor G, Lynch P, Suen LW, Ray B. Cannabis donation as a harm reduction strategy: a case study. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:58. [PMID: 38449029 PMCID: PMC10916026 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00974-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The United States (US) continues to experience unprecedented rates of overdose mortality and there is increased need to identify effective harm reduction practices. Research from Canada describes cannabis donation through harm reduction agencies as an adjunctive strategy to mitigate the negative consequences of more harmful drugs. This case study describes the operational logistics, feasibility, and potential benefits of a cannabis donation program that was operated through a harm reduction program in rural Michigan. CASE PRESENTATION We applied a community driven research approach to gather information from harm reduction program staff about the implementation and evolution of cannabis donation efforts in Michigan. We also examined 20-months (September 2021 through May 2023) of administrative data from a cannabis company to compare the sale and donation of cannabis products. Ten cannabis-experienced harm reduction clients received cannabis donations, with clinical staff determining client interest and appropriateness, and providing weekly pick-up or delivery. To expand product availability and sustainability, we examined administrative data from a commercialcannabis company that volunteered to provide donations. This administrative data suggests that while flower products constitute most of the adult and medical sales, edible, oil, and topical products predominated donations. Further, cost analysis suggests that donations represent only 1% of total gross sales and account for much less than the expected yearly donation amount. CONCLUSIONS Research suggests there is potential to reduce alcohol and drug use related harms of more dangerous substances through substitution with cannabis. This case study is the first to document cannabis donation as a harm reduction practice in the US and suggests potential for sustainability dependent on state laws. Findings from this case study provide a starting point for inquiry into cannabis donation as a harm reduction strategy in the US; future research is needed to fully understand the individual-level outcomes, public health impacts, necessary legal regulations, and best practices for cannabis donation programs through harm reduction organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grant Victor
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, 120 Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Pamela Lynch
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, 27709, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Leslie W Suen
- Division of General Internal Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 2540 23rd Street, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bradley Ray
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, 27709, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Pedroso JMG, Araujo CNDP, Corradi-Webster CM. The joy and pain of being a harm reduction worker: a qualitative study of the meanings about harm reduction in Brazil. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:56. [PMID: 38439094 PMCID: PMC10910711 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although harm reduction is highlighted as an effective intervention for alcohol and drug use, a funding gap for harm reduction interventions has been identified, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. In these countries, tensions between abstinence and harm reduction models have impaired the shift from punitive practices to evidence-based interventions committed to guaranteeing the human rights of people who use drugs. Since 2015, the Brazilian government has adopted a more punitive and abstinence-focused drug policy that jeopardizes the care of people who use alcohol and other drugs and the comprehension of the harm reduction workers' perspective in relation to their practice. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehend the meanings constructed by Brazilian harm reduction workers regarding their practices with vulnerable populations amidst a context of political tension. METHODS We conducted 15 in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews with harm reduction workers employed in public health services for at least 6 months. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The thematic axis "The joy and pain of being a harm reduction worker in Brazil" was constructed and divided into four major themes: (1) Invisibility of harm reduction work; (2) Black, poor, and people who use drugs: identification with the service users; (3) Between advocacy and profession: harm reduction as a political act; (4) Small achievements matter. Despite the perceived invisibility of harm reduction workers in the public health and alcohol and drug fields, valuing small achievements and advocacy were important resources to deal with political tension and punitive strategies in Brazil. The findings also highlight the important role of harm reduction workers due to their personal characteristics and understanding of drug use behavior, which bring the target audience closer to actions within the public health system. CONCLUSION There is an urgent need to acknowledge harm reduction based on peer support as a professional category that deserves adequate financial support and workplace benefits. Additionally, expanding evidence-based harm reduction interventions and community-based voluntary drug use treatment centers should be prioritized by public policies to address the human rights violations experienced by people who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Maurício Gimenes Pedroso
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences, and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-900, Brazil.
- Central Paulista University Center - UNICEP, São Carlos, SP, 13563-470, Brazil.
| | - Cristiana Nelise de Paula Araujo
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, College of Health and Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32608, USA
| | - Clarissa Mendonça Corradi-Webster
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences, and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-900, Brazil
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Yockey RA. Psychosocial Factors Associated With Past Month Gambling Among Adolescents: Results From the 2016-2020 PRIDE Survey. Health Promot Pract 2024; 25:213-219. [PMID: 36367292 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221135101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The present study sought to identify psychosocial factors associated with recent gambling (gambling within the past 30 days). The 2016, 2018, and 2020 Parents' Institute for Drug Education (PRIDE) data sets were pooled and analyzed, consisting of 108,690 adolescents in 13 local public schools. A sizable percentage (13.1%) of adolescents reported gambling in the past 30 days. Multiple logistic regression analyses found differences based on demographic factors, previous substance use, and psychosocial factors. Adolescents at highest risk were male, non-White, in high school; sold drugs; and participated in violent activities in the past 30 days. The study also found worrying rates of substance use. Findings from the present study can inform harm reduction efforts, prevention messaging, and clinical interventions related to adolescent gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Andrew Yockey
- The University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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28
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Watson MS. [Chemsex - drug use primarily orientated around a sexual experience - Patients that fall through the gaps]. Praxis (Bern 1994) 2024; 113:73-77. [PMID: 38655733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug use in a sexualised context provides unique challenges both in specialised clinics (psychiatric and sexual health clinics) as well as general practice. Layered onto this leads some inequalities in health care to poorer outcomes in specific groups. This article aims to provide evidence based harm reduction strategies that can easily be applied in primary care to reduce complications, identify those at higher risk and deploy appropriate treatments.
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August-Rae BC, Baker JT, Buzzanell PM. "Not just rebellious, it's revolutionary": Do-it-yourself hormone replacement therapy as Liberatory Harm Reduction. Soc Sci Med 2024; 345:116681. [PMID: 38418336 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
For some transgender people, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is "an ontological necessity for a livable life" (Fondén, 2020, p. 29). Some trans people engage in do-it-yourself (DIY) HRT (aka "DIYers") because of care barriers, including medication costs, difficulty accessing healthcare providers, and mistrust in professionalized medical systems. Although DIY HRT is often framed as highly risky, we analyzed in-depth interviews with 36 U.S. DIYers to understand how they themselves perceived their goals, challenges, and risk mitigation using the Liberatory Harm Reduction and lay expertise frameworks. Participants emphasized experiences of transphobia within medical spaces. In contrast, participants characterized DIY HRT as a community-driven, accessible, and empowering practice. Through self-organized online forums and mutual aid, DIYers constructed adaptive health-promoting practices that challenge biomedical conceptualizations of risk and affirm trans agency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna C August-Rae
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Ave CIS 3068, Tampa, FL, 33620, United States; Department of Communication Studies & Storytelling, East Tennessee State University, 1276 Gilbreath Dr., Johnson City, TN, 37614, United States.
| | - Jonathan T Baker
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Ave CIS 3068, Tampa, FL, 33620, United States; School of Communication Studies, Ohio University, Schoonover Center 1 Ohio University, Athens, OH, 45701, United States.
| | - Patrice M Buzzanell
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Ave CIS 3068, Tampa, FL, 33620, United States.
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St Helen G. Commentary on Keller-Hamilton et al. : Oral nicotine pouches provide a less controversial route for tobacco harm reduction than electronic cigarettes. Addiction 2024; 119:476-477. [PMID: 38263511 DOI: 10.1111/add.16437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Gideon St Helen
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Program, Division of Cardiology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Aslan A, Lessard D, Lebouché B, Bichard I, Loze B, Laussat E, Molina JM. Harm reduction and multidisciplinary consultations for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men practising chemsex based in a French infectious disease unit: patients' characteristics and perceptions. Sex Health 2024; 21:SH23165. [PMID: 38467162 DOI: 10.1071/sh23165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemsex, a type of sexualised drug use, is expanding among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), with physical and mental health risks. Health-seeking behaviours of GBMSM practising chemsex is not clear. METHODS Harm reduction (HR) consultations for GBMSM engaging in chemsex and seeking comprehensive services including HR were offered in a Parisian infectious disease unit. From December 2021 to January 2022, HR consultation patients completed an online survey on their consumption, health, used services, and perspective on consultations. We generated descriptive statistics, and tested (χ 2 ) the relationship between reporting a specialised follow-up and perceived usefulness of intervention. RESULTS Of 172 patients, a total of 96 GBMSM (55.2%) completed the survey. Most ever consumed substance was 3-methylmethcathinone (3MMC; 92/96; 95.8%). Before consultations, about half consumed at least once a week (50/96; 52%), most reported negative impacts of chemsex on their social (60/96, 62.5%), professional (56/96, 58.3%), intimate (53/96; 55.21%), or sexual life (52/96; 54.17%). Also, more than two-thirds (n =57; 69.38%) had received a follow-up in specialised services: one-third had been followed in addictology (28/96, 29.2%) and/or psychotherapy (32/96, 33.3%), and one-fourth (24/96, 25.0%) had used emergency services. After consultations, three-quarters perceived the intervention as useful (n =74; 77.08%); we found no significant relationship with receiving a specialised follow-up; and most were satisfied with professionals' listening (90/96; 93.8%), and reported reduced risks (80/96; 83.3%). DISCUSSION Multidisciplinary HR, preventive, diagnostical, and therapeutic sexological and psychiatric interventions are greatly needed among GBMSM practising chemsex. HR interventions accessible in services already attended by GBMSM are a valuable option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Aslan
- Unité des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital Saint-Louis (Hopitaux de Paris - Assistance Publique de Paris), Paris, France
| | - David Lessard
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bertrand Lebouché
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada; and Chronic and Viral Illness Service, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada; and Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Iris Bichard
- Unité des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital Saint-Louis (Hopitaux de Paris - Assistance Publique de Paris), Paris, France
| | - Bénédicte Loze
- Unité des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital Saint-Louis (Hopitaux de Paris - Assistance Publique de Paris), Paris, France
| | - Eleonore Laussat
- Unité des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital Saint-Louis (Hopitaux de Paris - Assistance Publique de Paris), Paris, France
| | - Jean-Michel Molina
- Unité des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital Saint-Louis (Hopitaux de Paris - Assistance Publique de Paris), Paris, France; and Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Rochester E, Cunningham JA. Applying the Canadian Low-Risk Gambling Guidelines to Gambling Harm Reduction in England. J Gambl Stud 2024; 40:21-28. [PMID: 36617369 PMCID: PMC10904504 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10186-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
There is a need for evidence-based guidelines for gamblers who wish to reduce their risk of harm by setting self-directed limits on their gambling. Recognizing this, the Canadian Low-Risk Gambling Guidelines were developed using data from 8 countries to establish the relationship between gambling behaviour and harm. The guidelines include recommended limits on gambling spending as a percentage of income, gambling frequency, and number of types of games played. However, the developers of the LRGG's did not include UK data in their analysis. This study analyzes data from Health Survey England to assess the applicability of the Canadian Low-Risk Gambling Guidelines to gamblers in England. Using HSE data from 2016 to 2018, we generated risk curves for the relationship between 2 dimensions of gambling behaviour-frequency of gambling sessions and number of types of games played-and gambling harm. We defined harm as a score of 1 or above on the Problem Gambling Severity Index. HSE does not include questions on gambling spending, therefore this was not assessed. The relationship observed between frequency and types of gambling and harm among HSE respondents was similar to the risk curves generated for the development of the Canadian LRGG's. Gamblers in England who gambled twice weekly or more, or who played 3 or more types of games, were significantly more likely to experience harm from gambling than those who gambled below these limits. The Canadian LRGG's may potentially be applied to gambling harm reduction efforts in England. More research is needed to determine the acceptability of these guidelines to people who gamble in England.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Rochester
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - John A Cunningham
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK.
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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MacCallum CA, Lo LA, Pistawka CA, Christiansen A, Boivin M. Cannabis vaporisation: Understanding products, devices and risks. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:732-745. [PMID: 38124429 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
ISSUES Vaporisation is a common method of cannabis administration. Inconsistent terminology and jargon regarding vaporisation has led to confusion. The increasing public interest and access to cannabis, combined with possible safety concerns associated with certain cannabis vaping products, warrants improved consumer and public and health care professional knowledge. APPROACH To improve this knowledge, we conducted a review of the common terminology, regulatory status, products and device types related to cannabis vaporisation. KEY FINDINGS Cannabis vaporisation devices can be separated into nine types. While vaporisation reduces respiratory risks associated with cannabis combustion, not all vaping products and device types carry the same level of safety. Metered dose inhalers and dried product vaporisers present the lowest safety risk due to a lower risk of toxin exposure and the use of lower tetrahydrocannabinol potency products. IMPLICATIONS As both vaping and cannabis use increase in popularity, focusing on accurate health education will help facilitate health promotion to encourage lower risk use. The current lack of understanding on risk differences between types of cannabis vaporisation is a missed opportunity for harm reduction. Increased opportunities for public health and health care professional education on different cannabis vaporisation devices and associated risks are warranted. Improvements to health warning labelling may also be beneficial. CONCLUSION Not all cannabis vaporisation devices and products carry the same level of risk. A better understanding of risk differentiation is needed among consumers and health professionals. Continued research, policy development and health education can lead to safer cannabis vaporisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A MacCallum
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Lo
- Department of Public Health Science, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carly A Pistawka
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Kontos N, Rao V. Clinical harm reduction in substance use: An ethics-oriented primer and critique for hospital-based providers. J Eval Clin Pract 2024; 30:260-267. [PMID: 38018023 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Substance use-targeted harm reduction (HR) has successfully expanded from public health into clinical settings. Hospital-based providers are in positions to encounter, precipitate and/or mediate ethically fraught situations that can arise around clinical HR-informed interventions. We examine why these situations occur and how they might be better addressed. METHOD Literature focused on principles, ethics, and clinical implementation of HR are reviewed to identify core elements of this approach. Next, ethical vulnerabilities within those elements are identified and critiqued. A more productive discourse for acknowledging, voicing and addressing ethical dilemmas in HR is sought. RESULTS Public health orientation and humane concern for substance users, along with a strong anti-stigmatization mission and occasional aversion to a rigid medical model and 'establishment' contributed to HR's successes but can also frame any dissent over its methods as being stigma-fuelled. Practically distilled concepts from moral philosophy and the medical humanities can inform good faith discussions based on common-ground concern for patients. CONCLUSION HR's use in the general hospital and other clinical settings is a positive development, but one that brings with it new ethical demands. Broader knowledge of the principles of HR, of the application of those principles to the hospital setting, and of common-ground concepts from outside of HR could help facilitate productive ethical engagement around substance-using patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Kontos
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vinod Rao
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Rodriguez M, McKenzie M, McKee H, Ledingham EM, John K, Koziol J, Hallowell BD. Differences in Substance Use and Harm Reduction Practices by Race and Ethnicity: Rhode Island Harm Reduction Surveillance System, 2021-2022. J Public Health Manag Pract 2024; 30:E84-E93. [PMID: 38153310 PMCID: PMC10872563 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT In the United States, minority populations are disproportionately affected by the overdose epidemic, have higher mortality rates, and unequal access to harm reduction and treatment services. OBJECTIVE This analysis aims to better understand harm reduction utilization and substance use patterns among minority populations to improve overdose outreach and prevention initiatives in Rhode Island. DESIGN The present analysis used data from the Harm Reduction Surveillance System from January 2021 to December 2022 (N = 393). Chi-square tests and multivariable regression models were used to investigate differences in substance use behaviors by race and ethnicity. SETTING Rhode Island. PARTICIPANTS Participants include individuals who self-reported the use of illicit drugs, currently reside in Rhode Island, and were older than 18 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Methods of drug use and uptake of harm reduction practices. RESULTS Among survey participants, 41% were non-Hispanic White, 57% were aged 25 to 44 years, 62% identified as male, and 95% had health insurance coverage. Most participants reported smoking as their method of drug use (90%) and harm reduction practices were underutilized by all race and ethnicity groups. Fewer non-Hispanic Black participants reported carrying naloxone compared to the other race and ethnicity groups. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants were significantly less likely to inject drugs compared with non-Hispanic White participants (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04-0.45) (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18-0.90). CONCLUSIONS Smoking was the most common self-reported method of substance administration for all participants, whereas injection was more prevalent among non-Hispanic White participants. There is a continued need for minority-led and culturally informed harm reduction and treatment services for minority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- McClaren Rodriguez
- Substance Use Epidemiology Program, Center for Health Data Analysis, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island (Mss Rodriguez, Ledingham, and St. John and Dr Hallowell); Preventing Overdose and Naloxone Intervention (PONI), The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island (Mss McKenzie and McKee); and Drug Overdose Prevention Program, Center for Health Data Analysis, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island (Ms Koziol)
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Wolfe HL, Fix GM, Hughto JMW, Hughes LD, Operario D, Hadland SE, Siegel J, Drainoni ML. Understanding how primary care providers report discussing substance use with transgender and gender diverse patients. Patient Educ Couns 2024; 120:108101. [PMID: 38103396 PMCID: PMC10842839 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.108101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how primary care providers report discussing substance use with transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adult patients within the context of discussing gender-affirming interventions. METHODS Between March and April 2022, in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 primary care providers who care for TGD patients in the Northeastern US. Thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data and identify themes. RESULTS Two primary themes emerged among providers: 1) placing a focus on harm reduction, emphasizing reducing negative consequences of substance use, and 2) using access to gender-affirming interventions as an incentive for patients to change their substance use patterns. CONCLUSIONS Focusing on harm reduction can emphasize reducing potential adverse outcomes while working with TGD patients towards their gender-affirmation goals. Future research should explore varying approaches to how substance use is discussed with TGD patients, as well as the interpretation of gender-affirming clinical guidelines. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Findings from this study indicate a need for enhancing provider knowledge around the appropriate application of gender-affirming care guidelines. Investing in training efforts to improve gender-affirming care is critical for encouraging approaches that prioritize harm reduction and do not unnecessarily prevent access to gender-affirming interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hill L Wolfe
- Biomedical Informatics and Data Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA; Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-morbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, USA.
| | - Gemmae M Fix
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, USA; Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA; Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA; The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, USA
| | - Landon D Hughes
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Scott E Hadland
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Mass General for Children, Boston, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Jennifer Siegel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Transgender Health Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA; Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA; Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences, Boston University, Boston, USA
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Young AM, Havens JR, Cooper HLF, Fallin-Bennett A, Fanucchi L, Freeman PR, Knudsen H, Livingston MD, McCollister KE, Stone J, Vickerman P, Freeman E, Jahangir T, Larimore E, White CR, Cheatom C, Community Staff K, Design Team K. Kentucky Outreach Service Kiosk (KyOSK) Study protocol: a community-level, controlled quasi-experimental, type 1 hybrid effectiveness study to assess implementation, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a community-tailored harm reduction kiosk on HIV, HCV and overdose risk in rural Appalachia. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083983. [PMID: 38431295 PMCID: PMC10910671 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-083983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many rural communities bear a disproportionate share of drug-related harms. Innovative harm reduction service models, such as vending machines or kiosks, can expand access to services that reduce drug-related harms. However, few kiosks operate in the USA, and their implementation, impact and cost-effectiveness have not been adequately evaluated in rural settings. This paper describes the Kentucky Outreach Service Kiosk (KyOSK) Study protocol to test the effectiveness, implementation outcomes and cost-effectiveness of a community-tailored, harm reduction kiosk in reducing HIV, hepatitis C and overdose risk in rural Appalachia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS KyOSK is a community-level, controlled quasi-experimental, non-randomised trial. KyOSK involves two cohorts of people who use drugs, one in an intervention county (n=425) and one in a control county (n=325). People who are 18 years or older, are community-dwelling residents in the target counties and have used drugs to get high in the past 6 months are eligible. The trial compares the effectiveness of a fixed-site, staffed syringe service programme (standard of care) with the standard of care supplemented with a kiosk. The kiosk will contain various harm reduction supplies accessible to participants upon valid code entry, allowing dispensing data to be linked to participant survey data. The kiosk will include a call-back feature that allows participants to select needed services and receive linkage-to-care services from a peer recovery coach. The cohorts complete follow-up surveys every 6 months for 36 months (three preceding kiosk implementation and four post-implementation). The study will test the effectiveness of the kiosk on reducing risk behaviours associated with overdose, HIV and hepatitis C, as well as implementation outcomes and cost-effectiveness. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The University of Kentucky Institutional Review Board approved the protocol. Results will be disseminated in academic conferences and peer-reviewed journals, online and print media, and community meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05657106.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jennifer R Havens
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Laura Fanucchi
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Patricia R Freeman
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Hannah Knudsen
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Melvin D Livingston
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kathryn E McCollister
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Edward Freeman
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Tasfia Jahangir
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Larimore
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Carol R White
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | | | - KyOSK Community Staff
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Thain BK, Lu R, Fitzpatrick C, Richardson D. Beyond-66: A pilot evaluation of a novel, peer-led harm reduction intervention for chemsex dependant men who have sex with men in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:164-168. [PMID: 37938931 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231213113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little research exploring harm reduction interventions for men who have sex with men (MSM) who engage in chemsex. Beyond-66 is a novel, 132-day, peer-led intervention programme for MSM who are chemsex dependent in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility, retention and effect of Beyond-66 on: abstinence from chemsex, motivation for abstinence, and mental wellbeing. METHOD We collected data on demographics, retention and completion and abstinence between January 2021-August 2023 in MSM using Beyond-66. Using 10-point Likert scales, we compared motivation to remain abstinent and mental wellbeing at the beginning and end of Beyond-66. RESULTS 25 MSM have either completed or dropped out/referred out of Beyond-66, 12/25(48%) were living with HIV and the median duration of chemsex use was 5 years (IQR = 4-6). 19 (76%) completed programme; 3 were referred out for a psychiatry assessment and 3 dropped out of the programme. 14 (74%) remain abstinent and 5 relapsed. The median motivation for abstinence scores for the 19 completers increased significantly between the pre-programme and post-programme period (7/10 (IQR = 4-8) to 9/10 (IQR = 5-10), p = .04) and the median mental health score (Likert score out of 10 where 10 is poor mental health) reduced significantly (5/10 (IQR = 4-7) to 2/10 (IQR 1-6), p = .008). CONCLUSION This pilot evaluation suggests that MSM using Beyond-66 experience high completion (76%) and abstinence (74%) rates and increased motivation for abstinence and mental wellbeing scores. Further research is needed to design, develop, and deliver peer led interventions for MSM who are chemsex dependant.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel Richardson
- University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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Riley BJ, Lawn S, Crisp BR, Battersby M. Much Ado About Nothing? The Role of Land-Based Gambling Venue Employees in Facilitating Problem Gambling Harm Reduction and Help-Seeking. J Gambl Stud 2024; 40:387-408. [PMID: 37341840 PMCID: PMC10904429 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10226-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, greater emphasis has been placed on the role of the land-based gambling industry to respond to problem gambling behaviour in their venues. Despite this, there is a lack of clear information advising best practice responses by gambling venue employees. This article reviews strategies, practices, and policies employed by land-based gambling venues concerning their employees' role in preventing gambling-related harm and responding to problem gambling behaviours. A systematic search strategy was applied to source peer-reviewed literature which identified 49 articles. The synthesised results were arranged and presented across five categories: (1) the identification of gamblers with potential problems in the venue; (2) gambling venue staff responses to gamblers with potential problems; (3) gamblers' perspectives around venue responsibilities and interactions with gamblers with potential problems; (4) corporate social responsibility programs and the identification of gamblers with problems in the venue; and (5) gambling venue staff needs. The results suggest that most activity performed by venue staff concerning their response to problem gambling is limited to observing and documenting risky behaviours and then discussing this internally with other venue staff. Action which moves beyond this, such as approaching and interacting with identified gamblers of concern, rarely occurs. The results of this review suggest that a focus on the identification and intervention specifically with identified gamblers of concern is a particularly unhelpful aspect of the role of venue staff. The results also indicate that a re-thinking of the role frontline staff play in addressing problem gambling is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben J Riley
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Sharon Lawn
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Beth R Crisp
- Faculty of Health, School of Health & Soc. Dev., Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Malcolm Battersby
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Pope E, McCullough M, Smith JG, Kim B. Knowledge, practice and attitudes regarding substance use disorder treatment and harm reduction strategies among pharmacists: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080338. [PMID: 38418243 PMCID: PMC10910657 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmacists provide a spectrum of services and comprehensive medication management for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) with many providing timely and increased access to care for patients. Prior studies have evaluated other healthcare professionals' attitudes, knowledge and practice in regard to SUD treatment and harm reduction services. However, no reviews to date summarise the available literature on the attitudes, knowledge and practice in regard to SUD treatment and harm reduction services from the pharmacist perspective. This scoping review aims to systematically map the extent, range and nature of available evidence and identify and describe gaps in knowledge, practice and attitudes towards SUD treatment among pharmacists with the goal of providing information for meaningful integration of pharmacists into SUD care. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will use the framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005) updated with recommendations by Levac et al (2010) and the Joanna Briggs Institute (2020). The protocol is registered via Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/92dek). We will search for peer-reviewed literature containing empirical evidence investigating SUD treatment or harm reduction with outcomes pertaining to the knowledge, practice or attitudes of pharmacists. Findings will be guided and assessed by research objectives and summarised using descriptive statistics and thematically for quantitative and qualitative findings, respectively. This review will be conducted and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Our findings will provide crucial information and support for future interventions and programmes which aim to meaningfully integrate pharmacists into SUD care. We will disseminate findings at conferences and publish in a peer-reviewed journal. In addition, we will integrate feedback on search strategy, data extraction and our dissemination approach from multidisciplinary collaborators including those within our team's institution and outside experts with clinical or administrative knowledge in SUD care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elle Pope
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Megan McCullough
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA, Bedford, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts-Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Jason G Smith
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bo Kim
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Rehman M, Chapman L, Liu L, Calvert S, Sukhera J. Structural stigma within inpatient care for people who inject drugs: implications for harm reduction. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:53. [PMID: 38413991 PMCID: PMC10900608 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00971-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals suffering with addiction have historically experienced disproportionally high levels of stigma. The process of inpatient care for those with substance abuse disorder (SUD) is multifaceted, shaped by the interplay of human interactions within the healthcare team and overarching structural factors like policy. While existing literature predominantly addresses personal and interpersonal stigma, the influence of structural stigma on care delivery practices remains understudied. Our research aims to investigate the impact of structural stigma on care processes for individuals with SUD admitted to acute medicine units. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of observation notes and interview transcripts utilizing an analytic framework related to structural stigma adapted from previous research. Data was collected from June 2019 to January 2020 in 2 hospitals. 81 participants consented to observation and 25 to interviews. Interviews were conducted with patients (n = 8), healthcare staff (n = 16), and caregivers (n = 1). RESULTS Each aspect of care for people with SUD is adversely influenced by structural forms of stigma. There was evidence of a gap in accessing care and time pressures which deteriorated care processes. Structural stigma also manifested in the physical spaces designed for care and the lack of adequate resources available for mental health and addictions care. We found that structural stigma perpetuated other forms of implicit and explicit stigma. CONCLUSIONS Structural stigma and other forms of stigma are interconnected. Improving care for people with SUD in hospital settings may require addressing structural forms of stigma such as how physical spaces are designed and how mental healthcare is integrated with physical healthcare within inpatient settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maham Rehman
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- Institute of Living Terry Building, Institute of LivingHartford Hospital, 200 Retreat Avenue, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA
| | | | - Lisa Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Sara Calvert
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Javeed Sukhera
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada.
- Institute of Living Terry Building, Institute of LivingHartford Hospital, 200 Retreat Avenue, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA.
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Kamusiime B, Beima-Sofie K, Chhun N, Nalumansi A, Nalukwago GK, Kasiita V, Twesige CC, Kansiime R, Muwonge TR, Kyambadde P, Kadama H, Mudiope P, Glick S, Lambdin B, Mujugira A, Heffron R. "Take services to the people": strategies to optimize uptake of PrEP and harm reduction services among people who inject drugs in Uganda. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:13. [PMID: 38395940 PMCID: PMC10893723 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00444-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk of HIV acquisition and often encounter barriers to accessing healthcare services. Uganda has high HIV prevalence among PWID and lacks integrated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and harm reduction services. Understanding PWID experiences accessing and using harm reduction services and PrEP will inform strategies to optimize integration that align with PWID needs and priorities. METHODS Between May 2021 and March 2023, we conducted semi-structured interviews with PWID in Kampala, Uganda. We recruited participants with and without previous experience accessing harm reduction services and/or PrEP using purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were audio recorded, translated, and transcribed. We used thematic analysis to characterize motivations for uptake of harm reduction and HIV prevention services, and strategies to optimize delivery of needle and syringe programs (NSP), medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and PrEP. RESULTS We conducted interviews with 41 PWID. Most participants were relatively aware of their personal HIV risk and accurately identified situations that increased risk, including sharing needles and engaging in transactional sex. Despite risk awareness, participants described engaging in known HIV risk behaviors to satisfy immediate drug use needs. All reported knowledge of harm reduction services, especially distribution of sterile needles and syringes, and many reported having experience with MOUD. Participants who had accessed MOUD followed two primary trajectories; limited resources and relationships with other PWID caused them to discontinue treatment while desire to regain something they believed was lost to their drug use motivated them to continue. Overall, PrEP knowledge among participants was limited and few reported ever taking PrEP. However, participants supported integrating PrEP into harm reduction service delivery and advocated for changes in how these services are accessed. Stigma experienced in healthcare facilities and challenges acquiring money for transportation presented barriers to accessing current facility-based harm reduction and HIV prevention services. CONCLUSIONS Meeting the HIV prevention needs of PWID in Uganda will require lowering barriers to access, including integrated delivery of PrEP and harm reduction services and bringing services directly to communities. Additional training in providing patient-centered care for healthcare providers may improve uptake of facility-based services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Kamusiime
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kristin Beima-Sofie
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Nok Chhun
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | | | | | - Vicent Kasiita
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Ritah Kansiime
- Most-At-Risk Populations Initiative (MARPI), National STI Control Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Peter Kyambadde
- Most-At-Risk Populations Initiative (MARPI), National STI Control Unit, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Sara Glick
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Barrot Lambdin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Research Triangle Institute, Berkeley, USA
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
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Scaramutti C, Hervera B, Rivera Y, Chueng TA, Forrest DW, Suarez E, Serota DP, Alkamli H, Ciraldo K, Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE. Improving access to HIV care among people who inject drugs through tele- harm reduction: a qualitative analysis of perceived discrimination and stigma. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:50. [PMID: 38396017 PMCID: PMC10893685 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00961-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tele-harm reduction (THR) is a telehealth-enhanced, peer-led, harm reduction intervention delivered within a trusted syringe services program (SSP) venue. The primary goal of THR is to facilitate linkage to care and rapid, enduring virologic suppression among people who inject drugs (PWID) with HIV. An SSP in Miami, Florida, developed THR to circumvent pervasive stigma within the traditional healthcare system. METHODS During intervention development, we conducted in-depth interviews with PWID with HIV (n = 25) to identify barriers and facilitators to care via THR. We employed a general inductive approach to transcripts guided by iterative readings of the raw data to derive the concepts, themes, and interpretations of the THR intervention. RESULTS Of the 25 PWID interviewed, 15 were in HIV care and adherent to medication; 4 were in HIV care but non-adherent; and 6 were not in care. Themes that emerged from the qualitative analysis included the trust and confidence PWID have with SSP clinicians as opposed to professionals within the traditional healthcare system. Several barriers to treatment were reported among PWID, including perceived and actual discrimination by friends and family, negative internalized behaviors, denial of HIV status, and fear of engaging in care. Facilitators to HIV care included empathy and respect by SSP staff, flexibility of telehealth location, and an overall destigmatizing approach. CONCLUSION PWID identified barriers and facilitators to receipt of HIV care through the THR intervention. Interviews helped inform THR intervention development, centered on PWID in the destigmatizing environment of an SSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Scaramutti
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Belén Hervera
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Yanexy Rivera
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Teresa A Chueng
- 2Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Edward Suarez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David P Serota
- 2Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hatoun Alkamli
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Katrina Ciraldo
- Department of Family and Community Medicine & Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tyler S Bartholomew
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- 2Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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44
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Taha S, King S, Atif S, Bate E. Changes in harm reduction service providers professional quality of life during dual public health emergencies in Canada. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:48. [PMID: 38388932 PMCID: PMC10882723 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00966-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harm reduction (HR) is a critical response to the pronounced toxicity deaths being experienced in Canada. HR providers report many benefits of their jobs, but also encounter chronic stress from structural inequities and exposure to trauma and death. This research study sought to quantify the emotional toll the toxicity emergency placed on HR providers (Cycle One; 2019). Study objectives were later expanded to determine the impact of the ongoing toxicity as well as the pandemic's impact on well-being (Cycle Two; 2021). METHODS Standardized measures of job satisfaction, burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and vulnerability to grief were used in an online national survey. Open-ended questions addressed resources and supports. HR partners across Canada validated the findings and contributed to alternative interpretations and implications. RESULTS 651 respondents in Cycle One and 1,360 in Cycle Two reported moderately high levels of job satisfaction; they reported finding great meaning in their work. Yet, mean levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress were moderate, with the latter significantly increasing in Cycle Two. Reported vulnerability to grief was moderate but increased significantly during COVID. When available, supports lacked the quality necessary to respond to the complexities of HR workers' experiences, or an insufficient number of sessions were covered through benefits. Respondents shared that their professional quality of life was affected more by policy failures and gaps in the healthcare system than it was by the demands of their jobs. CONCLUSION Both the benefits and the strain of providing harm reduction services cannot be underestimated. For HR providers, these impacts are compounded by the drug toxicity emergency, making the service gaps experienced by them all the more critical to address. Implications highlight the need for integration of HR into the healthcare system, sustainable and reliable funding, sufficient counselling supports, and equitable staffing models. Support for this essential workforce is critical to ensuring the well-being of themselves, the individuals they serve, and the health of the broader healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Taha
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 75 Albert St, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5E7, Canada.
| | - Samantha King
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 75 Albert St, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5E7, Canada
| | - Sara Atif
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 75 Albert St, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5E7, Canada
| | - Eliza Bate
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 75 Albert St, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5E7, Canada
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Popescu S, MalatyRivera J. Building harm reduction into global health security and pandemic prevention. BMJ 2024; 384:q301. [PMID: 38378199 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Popescu
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica MalatyRivera
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
- deBeaumont Foundation, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Stowe MJ, Gatonye R, Maharjan I, Kehinde S, Arya S, Valderrábano JH, Mcbride A, Scheibein F, Igonya EK, Fast D. The war on drugs is a war on us: young people who use drugs and the fight for harm reduction in the Global South. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:43. [PMID: 38368391 PMCID: PMC10874574 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In the Global South, young people who use drugs (YPWUD) are exposed to multiple interconnected social and health harms, with many low- and middle-income countries enforcing racist, prohibitionist-based drug policies that generate physical and structural violence. While harm reduction coverage for YPWUD is suboptimal globally, in low- and middle-income countries youth-focused harm reduction programs are particularly lacking. Those that do exist are often powerfully shaped by global health funding regimes that restrict progressive approaches and reach. In this commentary we highlight the efforts of young people, activists, allies, and organisations across some Global South settings to enact programs such as those focused on peer-to-peer information sharing and advocacy, overdose monitoring and response, and drug checking. We draw on our experiential knowledge and expertise to identify and discuss key challenges, opportunities, and recommendations for youth harm reduction movements, programs and practices in low- to middle-income countries and beyond, focusing on the need for youth-driven interventions. We conclude this commentary with several calls to action to advance harm reduction for YPWUD within and across Global South settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-J Stowe
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- South African Network of People Who Use Drugs (SANPUD), Cape Town, South Africa.
- Community Orientated Substance Use Program, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Rita Gatonye
- Women in Response to HIV/AIDS and Drug Addiction, Umuahia, Nigeria
| | | | - Seyi Kehinde
- Youth RISE Nigeria, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria
| | - Sidarth Arya
- State Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, Institute of Mental Health, Pt B.D.S University of Health Sciences, Rohtak, India
| | | | - Angela Mcbride
- South African Network of People Who Use Drugs (SANPUD), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Florian Scheibein
- School of Health Sciences, South East Technological University, Waterford, Ireland
| | | | - Danya Fast
- University of British Columbia and British Columbia Centre On Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
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Thakarar K, Appa A, Abdul Mutakabbir JC, Goff A, Brown J, Tuell C, Fairfield K, Wurcel A. Executive Summary: State-of-the-Art Review: Frame Shift-Focusing on Harm Reduction and Shared Decision Making for People Who Use Drugs Hospitalized With Infections. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:233-235. [PMID: 38018164 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kinna Thakarar
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population and Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Ayesha Appa
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jacinda C Abdul Mutakabbir
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of the Black Diaspora and African American Studies, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amelia Goff
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jessica Brown
- Department of Care Management, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Fairfield
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population and Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Alysse Wurcel
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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48
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Thakarar K, Appa A, Abdul Mutakabbir JC, Goff A, Brown J, Tuell C, Fairfield K, Wurcel A. Frame Shift: Focusing on Harm Reduction and Shared Decision Making for People Who Use Drugs Hospitalized With Infections. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:e12-e26. [PMID: 38018174 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kinna Thakarar
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population & Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Ayesha Appa
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jacinda C Abdul Mutakabbir
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of the Black Diaspora and African American Studies, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amelia Goff
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jessica Brown
- Department of Care Management, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Fairfield
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population & Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Alysse Wurcel
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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de Saxe Zerden L, Ware OD, Lombardi BN, Lombardi BM. Harm reduction workforce, behavioral health, and service delivery in the USA: a cross-sectional study. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:36. [PMID: 38336662 PMCID: PMC10858514 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00952-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite recent financial and policy support for harm reduction in the USA, information on the types of workers within organizations who design, implement, and actualize harm reduction services remains nascent. Little is known about how variability in the harm reduction workforce impacts referrals and linkages to other community supports. This exploratory mixed-methods study asked: (1) Who constitutes the harm reduction workforce? (2) Who provides behavioral health services within harm reduction organizations? (3) Are referral services offered and by whom? (4) Do referrals differ by type of harm reduction worker? METHODS Purposive sampling techniques were used to distribute an electronic survey to U.S.-based harm reduction organizations. Descriptive statistics were conducted. Multivariate binary logistic regression models examined the associations (a) between the odds of the referral processes at harm reduction organizations and (b) between the provision of behavioral health services and distinct types of organizational staff. Qualitative data were analyzed using a hybrid approach of inductive and thematic analysis. RESULTS Data from 41 states and Washington, D.C. were collected (N = 168; 48% response rate). Four primary types of workers were identified: community health/peer specialists (87%); medical/nursing staff (55%); behavioral health (49%); and others (34%). About 43% of organizations had a formal referral process; among these, only 32% had follow-up protocols. Qualitative findings highlighted the broad spectrum of behavioral health services offered and a broad behavioral health workforce heavily reliant on peers. Unadjusted results from multivariate models found that harm reduction organizations were more than 5 times more likely (95% CI [1.91, 13.38]) to have a formal referral process and 6 times more likely (95% CI [1.74, 21.52]) to have follow-up processes when behavioral health services were offered. Organizations were more than two times more likely (95% CI [1.09, 4.46]) to have a formal referral process and 2.36 (95% CI [1.11, 5.0]) times more likely to have follow-up processes for referrals when behavioral health providers were included. CONCLUSIONS The composition of the harm reduction workforce is occupationally diverse. Understanding the types of services offered, as well as the workforce who provides those services, offers valuable insights into staffing and service delivery needs of frontline organizations working to reduce morbidity and mortality among those who use substances. Workforce considerations within U.S.-based harm reduction organizations are increasingly important as harm reduction services continue to expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa de Saxe Zerden
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 325 Pittsboro St. CB #3550, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Orrin D Ware
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 325 Pittsboro St. CB #3550, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Brooke N Lombardi
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Brianna M Lombardi
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 325 Pittsboro St. CB #3550, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
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50
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Beaglehole R, Bonita R. Harnessing tobacco harm reduction. Lancet 2024; 403:512-514. [PMID: 38310909 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00140-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Bonita
- University of Auckland, Private Bag 9201, Auckland, New Zealand
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