High-risk drug use and new psychoactive substances: results from an EMCDDA trendspotter study : June 2017
In: Rapid communication
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In: Rapid communication
In: Substance use & misuse: an international interdisciplinary forum, Band 45, Heft 1-2, S. 266-287
ISSN: 1532-2491
In: European addiction research, Band 28, Heft 6, S. 436-445
ISSN: 1421-9891
<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a timely, non-invasive, and cost-effective indicator of illicit drug consumption. It is increasingly used by international organizations as a proxy measure for estimates of drug prevalence and related trends. Nevertheless, the literature exploring the limitations of WBE remains limited. This paper aims to shed further light on important shortcomings of WBE with recommendations on moving forward. <b><i>Method:</i></b> Utilizing case study and statistical analysis, the paper critically reviews methodological challenges associated with WBE results related to (i) levels, (ii) trends, and (iii) between-city comparisons of drug use. Data from raw influent wastewater samples from wastewater plants in the cities of Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger/Sandnes were analysed for amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine (benzoylecgonine) over a 3-year period. Normalized population loads were calculated and variation in daily loads analysed with plots and estimation of means, confidence intervals, and coefficient of variation. Linear regression models examined trends and between-city differences. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Plots and statistical analyses revealed extensive variation in daily loads, with min/max values of 6.1/453.9 mg/day per 1,000 inhabitants 15–64 years for amphetamine and correspondingly 9.4/675.9 mg for methamphetamine. Substantial differences in load levels and patterns across time and plants were also observed. A carefully designed sampling procedure and a relatively large number of daily samples are required to obtain estimates of sufficient precision for determining trends in space or time. Cross-referencing with alternative trend variables can improve the interpretation of WBE trend indicators. Finally, when using mean load levels for different wastewater-treatment plants to assess spatial variation in drug use, the representativeness of the catchment area should be evaluated before interpreting observed changes as city differences. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Although WBE is a useful supplementary indicator of illicit drug consumption, important methodological issues and potential shortcomings should be taken into account when designing sampling procedures and interpreting the analytical results.
In: European addiction research, Band 23, Heft 3, S. 113-121
ISSN: 1421-9891
This paper explores European and national trends in specialised drug treatment entry for cannabis-related problems. The analysis is based on data for the years 2003-2014 from 22 European countries. Between 2003 and 2014, the overall number and proportion of primary cannabis-related first-time entrants increased significantly. A joinpoint regression analysis indicates that the overall increase of cannabis treatment entries is continuous, although country-related differences are observed. Possible explanations for the increase and different time trends are discussed including an increase in cannabis prevalence and cannabis-related problems, changes in risk perception, increases in cannabis potency, changes in referral practices and increased availability and accessibility of treatment services.
In: Substance use & misuse: an international interdisciplinary forum, Band 35, Heft 6-8, S. 811-844
ISSN: 1532-2491
In: Rapid communication
In: European addiction research, Band 27, Heft 4, S. 239-241
ISSN: 1421-9891
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is likely to have a profound impact on the lives of high-risk drug users and on the services responding to their needs in at least two important ways: first, through the restrictive measures introduced to mitigate the spread of the virus and, second, as a result of extensive economic downturn. Currently there is great uncertainty as to the future intensity and duration of the pandemic. In addition, the lessons we have been able to learn from previous economic downturns may be of limited applicability to the current situation, which differs in a number of significant respects. Experience nevertheless suggests that the potential consequences for drug users' health and well-being may be severe. The ongoing uncertainty serves to underline the importance of close monitoring of the drug situation and preparing flexible and innovative solutions to be able to meet new challenges which may arise.
In: Rapid communications
This report looks at the use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in prison settings. This is a rapidly developing phenomenon, but empirical data are currently scarce and patchy. There is growing evidence that NPS are responsible for a large share of drug-related problems in some European prisons and appropriate responses are mostly lacking. This preliminary analysis is the outcome of a targeted rapid information assessment or 'trendspotter' study carried out by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) between August and December 2017. Trendspotter studies are based on a multi-method approach and expert opinion. They are intended to elaborate emerging issues and prompt discussion and, if required, more formal follow-up.
In: Journal of geography, politics and society, Band 12, Heft 1
ISSN: 2451-2249
Since early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on the way we live, with European countries having to introduce unprecedented measures to protect public health. As with all areas of life, drug consumption, related harms and drug markets have been impacted, as have the drug services established to respond to drug-related problems. Since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction instigated three rapid assessment studies to identify the initial impact and implications of COVID-19 on drug markets, use, harms and drug services in the community and in prisons. Findings from these studies revealed that the pandemic and associated health prevention measures implemented by the countries impacted drug markets and use differently depending on the different periods and events throughout the pandemic, but also according to particular drugs or user characteristics. Most drug services remained operational throughout the pandemic in order to assure continuity of care. This was achieved by innovation and adaptation of their services, especially during the different lockdown periods. Thus, the results from these rapid assessments provide a glimpse into new developments in the drugs field across European countries emerging both during and in response to the pandemic, and which could have important implications for the future.