How synthetic cannabinoid user profiles and consumption patterns can affect wastewater-based epidemiology.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Social Science

Background:

• Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) relies on connecting drug users to sewer systems.
• Social marginalization can limit access to housing and sanitation, potentially biasing WBE.
• Understanding drug consumption patterns in vulnerable populations is crucial for public health policy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate biases in WBE related to housing and social factors among synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) consumers.
• To assess the representativeness of WBE by examining the living conditions of SCRA users in Mayotte.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 123 SCRA consumers in Mayotte, collecting data on demographics, consumption habits, and housing conditions.
• Analysis of housing access (tap water, electricity) and its correlation with SCRA consumption frequency (occasional to daily).

Main Results:

• Daily SCRA consumption was reported by 49.6% of participants.
• No significant housing differences were found across different consumption frequency groups.
• Despite social ostracization, few SCRA consumers were homeless, indicating social support provides access to facilities.

Conclusions:

• Social support networks enable SCRA consumers, including daily users, to maintain access to essential facilities.
• These findings enhance the representativeness of wastewater-based epidemiology for drug use surveillance.
• WBE can be a reliable tool for public health monitoring, irrespective of drug consumption frequency or social status.