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Characteristics of Homeless Youth Who Use Cocaine and Methamphetamine

Year: 2012

Type: article

Abstract: This cross-sectional hepatitis health promotion study (N = 156) was designed to identify correlates of cocaine and methamphetamine use among young, homeless persons living in Los Angeles County. Structured questionnaires were administered at baseline to assess sociodemographic characteristics, drug history, and social support. Unadjusted analysis showed that older age, having a history of incarceration, injection drug use (IDU), 10 or more sexual partners, and sex for money were associated with both cocaine and methamphetamine use. Logistic regression results showed that injection drug users had over seven times greater odds of using each stimulant compared with nonusers of injection drugs; those reporting at least 10 sexual partners and alcohol use in the past 6 months were more likely to use cocaine than their respective counterparts. African Americans were also less likely than Whites to report cocaine use. Understanding of these relationships can guide interventions targeting the multiple challenges faced by this population.

Source: American Journal on Addictions

DOI: 10.1111/j.1521-0391.2012.00233.x

Authors: Adeline Nyamathi, Angela Hudson, Barbara Greengold, Barbara Leake

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Homelessness and Social Issues

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute of Nursing Research