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Disability-Related Differences in Substance Use Among U.S. Young Adults
Jessica Williams1, Xiao Li1, Carla J Berg2
1Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.
Substance Use & Addiction Journal
|August 9, 2026
Summary
Young adults with disabilities show higher rates of substance use, including cannabis, tobacco, and non-medical stimulants and opioids. Tailored prevention and treatment are crucial for this population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Substance Use Research
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Limited research exists on substance use among individuals with disabilities.
- This study investigates substance use differences in U.S. young adults with and without disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine disparities in substance use patterns between young adults with and without disabilities.
- To explore how disability status, subtype, and number of limitations influence substance use.
Main Methods:
- Utilized internet-based survey data from 3,458 U.S. young adults (18-34 years).
- Employed multivariable regression analyses to assess disability status and subtypes (hearing, vision, cognitive, mobility) against substance use frequency and non-medical use.
- Analyzed past 30-day cannabis/tobacco use, binge drinking, and past 6-month non-medical stimulant/opioid use.
Main Results:
- One-third of participants reported at least one disability.
- Individuals with disabilities had higher odds of frequent cannabis use, more days of tobacco use, and significantly higher rates of non-medical stimulant and opioid use.
- Mobility limitations correlated with increased binge drinking; a greater number of disability subtypes was linked to higher likelihood of using all studied substances except binge drinking.
Conclusions:
- Substance use patterns in young adults vary significantly based on disability status, subtype, and the number of limitations.
- Highlights the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies for substance use within the underserved population of young adults with disabilities.
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