题名

Challenges to Neuroscience and Public Policy Derived from New Trends and Patterns of Inhalant Misuse

DOI

10.4303/jdar/235842

作者

María Elena Medina-Mora;Jorge A. Villatoro;Clara Fleiz;Mario Domínguez;Silvia L. Cruz

关键词

inhalants ; underage youth ; adolescents ; poverty ; consequences ; societal responses

期刊名称

Journal of Drug and Alcohol Research

卷期/出版年月

3期(2014 / 12 / 01)

页次

j1 - 8

内容语文

英文

英文摘要

Use of inhalants (solvents, aerosols, gases, and nitrites) is a worldwide practice, mainly among children and adolescents in whom toxic effects are more detrimental than in adults. Inhalant misuse is increasing among young adults linked to new and more attractive presentations; it is more common among those coming from poor communities with high violence and delinquency levels, and also among street children and adolescents. Voluntary inhalant misuse is more frequent among males, but the gender gap is narrowing. The risk of developing dependence is well established, especially if inhalant misuse begins at an early age. Suicidality and comorbidity with psychiatric disorders are also common. Regular users are more likely to show deviant behavior, school truancy, and lower school grades. Family history of antisocial behavior has also been reported. Abuse of nitrites is associated with a higher risk of HIV. In general, abuse of inhalants increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. In spite of this evidence, these substances have received less attention than other misused drugs. This review shows results from epidemiology, psychosocial, and treatment research to draw attention to gaps of knowledge that require the involvement of neurosciences and clinical research and to propose policy options.

主题分类 醫藥衛生 > 預防保健與衛生學
醫藥衛生 > 藥理醫學
醫藥衛生 > 社會醫學