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A Gender-Based Analysis of Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use Among People Who Use Illicit Drugs

Resource type
Date created
2019-05-21
Authors/Contributors
Author: Cheng, Tessa
Author: Small, Will
Author: DeBeck, Kora
Abstract
Abstract: Background: Research investigating the unique impacts associated with engaging in nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) among males and females who also use illicit drugs is needed.Methods: Data were collected between 2013 and 2017 from two linked prospective cohort studies in Vancouver: the At-Risk Youth Study and Vancouver Injection Drug Users Study. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with engaging in NMPOU among females and males separately.Results: Among 1,459 participants, 534 were female (37%). Similar proportions of females (46%) and males (48%) engaged in NMPOU at their first visit during the study period. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with NMPOU among both males and females included heroin use, overdose, drug dealing, and difficulty accessing health and social services. Among females, those who engaged in NMPOU were more likely to report Caucasian or white ethnicity, cocaine use, crystal methamphetamine use, and sex work; among males, those who engaged in NMPOU were older, reported crack use and engaged in binge drug use (all p<0.05).Conclusion: The prevalence of NMPOU was similar among males and females who use illicit drugs in Vancouver, and NMPOU was independently associated with markers of vulnerability among both genders. Findings highlight the need for a comprehensive public health approach to address NMPOU that integrates overdose prevention and reversal services, employment opportunities, and better access to services for both women and men.
Description
The full text of this paper will be available in May 2021 due to the embargo policies of Addictive Behaviors. Contact summit@sfu.ca to enquire if the full text of the accepted manuscript can be made available to you.
Published as
Cheng T, Nosova E, Small W, Hogg RS, Hayashi K, DeBeck K. A gender-based analysis of nonmedical prescription opioid use among people who use illicit drugs. Addictive Behaviors, May 21, 2019 :97, 42-48. PMID: 31146150. DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.05.022.
Publication details
Publication title
Addictive Behaviors
Document title
A gender-based analysis of nonmedical prescription opioid use among people who use illicit drugs
Date
Issue
97
First page
42
Last page
48
Copyright statement
Copyright is held by the author(s).
Scholarly level
Peer reviewed?
Yes
Language
English
Member of collection

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