Predictors of methamphetamine use in disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Czechia

This study aims to identify predictors of the lifetime prevalence of methamphetamine use in the population of Czech disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

Using data from a face-to-face representative survey, two types of analysis were performed. A bivariate analysis (unadjusted odds ratios estimated with logistic regression) was conducted to determine the relationship with a dependent variable (lifetime prevalence of methamphetamine use). Subsequently, three multivariate binomial logistic regression models (socio-demographic and socioeconomic status, incarceration and victimization, mobility and space) were conducted to control for the influence of other variables.

In a series of multinomial logit models, we have found the following predictors to be significantly associated with lifetime prevalence of methamphetamine use: age, gender, Roma ethnicity, net monthly household income, unstable housing, lifetime experience with incarceration, lifetime experience with discrimination, urban-rural divide, and index of rural peripheralization.

The results suggest that methamphetamine users are multidimensionally disadvantaged and therefore constitute a vulnerable group with specific needs. This should be considered when designing services and policies targeting methamphetamine use in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.