Background: Problem alcohol use is associated with adverse health outcomes among current or former heroin users and primary care is providing methadone treatment for increasing numbers of this population. This study aimed todetermine the prevalence of problem alcohol use among current or former heroin users attending primary care for methadone treatment and to describe the socio-demographic characteristics and health service utilisation characteristics associated with problem alcohol uses.
Objectives To determine the prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen, hepatitis C virus, and HIV in entrants to Irish prisons and to examine risk factors for infection. Design Cross sectional, anonymous survey, with self completed risk factor questionnaire and oral fluid specimen for antibody testing.
Among primary care patients undergoing methadone treatment, continuing in methadone treatment is associated with a reduced risk of death. Patients' risk of all-cause mortality increases following treatment cessation, and is highest in the initial 4-week period.
While a large proportion of drug users attending GPs for methadone maintenance treatment are known to be HCV positive, a considerable number have not been tested. Barriers to testing need to be explored to facilitate comprehensive screening.
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