Thursday, October 30, 2008

Risk factors for methamphetamine abuse

Methamphetamine is a stimulant, also known as 'meth' or 'speed' that can be smoked, snorted or injected and which produces sensations of euphoria, lowered inhibitions, feelings of invincibility, increased wakefulness and an increase in energy. An analysis of 12 studies into the risk factors for methamphetamine abuse, carried out by researchers at the University of Alberta, Canada looked at low-risk (those not involved in any other drug abuse) and high-risk (those who had taken other drugs or who had been in a juvenile detention centre) children. Within the low-risk group a history of engaging in behaviour such as sexual activity, particularly homosexual or bisexual activity, alchohol consumption and smoking was significantly associated with methamphetamine use. Among high-risk youth the risk factors identified were growing up in a family with a history of crime, alcohol and drug use; having received treatment for a psychiatric condition and being a girl.

You can find out more about this research at

http://psychcentral.com/news/2008/10/28/meth-abuse-among-teens/3214.html

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Methamphetamine abuse causes great harm to children, families and communities, but it is a preventable and treatable problem that we are taking steps to address. Rampant caries is one of the hallmarks of chronic methamphetamine abuse. "Meth" is a potent central nervous system stimulant with physical and psychological effects similar to cocaine. It is the author's opinion that the caries associated with methamphetamine abuse is related to these risk factors xerostomia caused by the drug, a subsequent increase in sugared soft drink consumption; and lack of oral hygiene during extended periods of abuse.
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