Addiction
-
To study the prevalence of smoking among Pakistani population with particular reference to regional differences and correlates of cigarette smoking. ⋯ Smoking is common in Pakistan. There is no clear policy on tobacco control in Pakistan.
-
To measure the prevalence and independent associations of heavy and problematic use of alcohol and recreational drugs among a household-based sample of urban MSM (men who have sex with men). ⋯ The complex pattern of associations with heavy and/or problematic substance use among urban MSM suggests that heavy and/or problematic substance use is grounded in multiple levels: the individual, the interpersonal and the socio-cultural.
-
To examine the relationship between attempted suicide and non-fatal heroin overdose among methadone maintenance patients. ⋯ Attempted suicide presents a major clinical problem to staff at drug treatment programmes, but one distinct from heroin overdose. While both overdose and suicide present increasing clinical problems, they are separate problems, and require different responses.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Randomized controlled trial of brief cognitive-behavioural interventions among regular users of amphetamine.
To identify whether brief cognitive-behavioural interventions are feasible among regular users of amphetamine, to assess the effectiveness of intervention overall and to pilot two- and four-session interventions. ⋯ Brief cognitive-behavioural interventions appear feasible among regular users of amphetamine. A larger randomised controlled trial of the effectiveness of such interventions appears warranted.
-
Several countries have followed the US example in publishing national guidelines on smoking cessation interventions. Gauging responses to these guidelines can provide important lessons for future implementation and revision internationally. This study sought to assess General Practitioners' (GPs') views on recently published English smoking cessation guidelines that form the foundation of the UK National Health Service's smoking cessation strategy. ⋯ There was greater acceptance by GPs that they should assist smokers wanting to stop than that they should routinely monitor smoking status and give opportunistic advice to patients to stop. Given that opportunistic advice is a cornerstone of the national guidelines there is a need to find ways of reconciling what is being recommended and what GPs feel is appropriate.