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Related Experiment Videos

Cocaine misuse in selected areas: Rome.

T Macchia1, R Mancinelli, G Bartolomucci

  • 1Laboratorio di Biochimica Clinica, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.

Annali Dell'Istituto Superiore Di Sanita
|January 1, 1990
PubMed
Summary

Cocaine use is rising in Europe, potentially leading to future health issues. This study examined cocaine user demographics and patterns in Rome using snowball sampling, revealing significant sex-based differences in usage characteristics.

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Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Substance Abuse Research

Background:

  • Increasing cocaine seizures and use in Italy and Europe suggest a growing public health concern.
  • Anticipated long-term health problems mirror trends observed in the United States with cocaine-related hospitalizations.
  • Identifying and assessing the extent of cocaine use is challenging due to the hidden nature of most users.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the suitability and supplementary perspectives of the "Snowball" sampling technique for cocaine use research.
  • To investigate the prevalence and incidence patterns of cocaine use in the Rome area.
  • To characterize the demographic and usage patterns of surveyed cocaine users.

Main Methods:

  • A pilot multi-center study on cocaine prevalence and incidence was conducted in the Rome area (September-December 1987).

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  • The "Snowball" sampling technique was employed to recruit 83 participants (32 female, 51 male).
  • Data collected included user demographics, educational level, civil status, duration and quantity of use, co-occurring substance abuse, and drug-related problems.

    • Main Results:

    • Significant sex-based differences were observed: females had higher educational attainment and were more likely to cohabitate, while males were more frequently single.
    • Median duration of cocaine use was 8 years for males and 6 years for females, with weekly consumption ranging from 1-7 grams.
    • Fifty percent of users reported co-abuse of other substances, primarily alcohol, and experienced drug-related issues (legal, occupational, familial).

    Conclusions:

    • The "Snowball" sampling technique provided valuable insights into cocaine user demographics and patterns in Rome.
    • Differences in usage patterns between sexes highlight the need for targeted interventions and further research.
    • Early initiation of use (teenagers) and escalating consumption over time indicate a need for preventative strategies.