Life-saving medications for alcohol use disorder ‘hugely under-utilized’ in B.C., study finds | CBC News
Life-saving medications for alcohol use disorder 'hugely under-utilized' in B.C., study finds CBC.ca
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Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder Remain Inaccessible for Most British Columbians, Study Finds
A new study conducted by researchers at the B.C. Centre on Substance Use reveals that the majority of British Columbians living with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) do not have access to medications that can save lives and prevent hospitalizations. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Alcohol Use Disorder and the Impact of Medications
Alcohol Use Disorder is a chronic relapsing disease that affects individuals who are unable to control or stop their alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. In 2019, AUD was responsible for over 3,200 deaths in Canada. Medications such as naltrexone and acamprosate are considered first-line treatments for AUD as they reduce alcohol cravings and diminish the pleasurable effects of drinking.
The study, published in the journal Addiction, found that individuals with AUD who had access to these medications in British Columbia were nearly half as likely to die or be hospitalized compared to those who did not take the medication.
Low Prescription and Retention Rates
Despite an increase in prescription and retention rates between 2015 and 2019, less than one-quarter of the 7,132 individuals diagnosed with AUD in B.C. had tried naltrexone or acamprosate in 2019. Furthermore, less than five percent of those who did try the medications stayed on them for the recommended minimum duration of three months.
The lead author of the study, Eugenia Socias, a research scientist at the BCCSU, expressed concern over the underutilization of these medications, stating, “We have medications for a disorder that we know is safe and effective, and they are being hugely underutilized.”
Access Disparities and Health Outcomes
The study also highlighted the disparities in access to medications based on geographical location. More than half of the individuals prescribed medications lived in large urban centers, while only 14.2 percent resided in rural areas and 2.3 percent in remote areas.
Furthermore, individuals who had never taken the medications were nearly seven times more likely to die during the study period compared to those who had received a prescription at least once. The study also found that medication use reduced the likelihood of hospitalization, with nearly 90 percent of individuals who did not take the medication visiting the hospital compared to 59.7 percent of those who did.
Importance of Medication in AUD Recovery
Evan James, manager of education and training at Victoria’s Umbrella Society, a non-profit organization supporting individuals with substance use disorders, emphasized the importance of medication as a tool in early AUD recovery. He stated that medications can help alleviate debilitating cravings experienced during this stage of recovery.
However, both James and Socias expressed concerns about the lack of awareness and comfort among doctors, particularly outside major urban centers, in prescribing these medications. Stigma surrounding alcohol and substance use can also prevent individuals from seeking help and learning about available treatment options.
Socias emphasized the need to expand access to medications and improve retention rates in order to enhance outcomes for individuals suffering from AUD. Achieving these goals aligns with the SDGs and promotes healthier communities.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
-
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
- Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders
-
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
- Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability
Analysis
The article addresses the issue of limited access to medications for alcohol use disorder (AUD) in British Columbia. Based on the content of the article, the following SDGs, targets, and indicators can be identified:
1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The article highlights the importance of medications in treating AUD and improving health outcomes for individuals with the condition. SDG 3 aims to ensure good health and well-being for all. Target 3.5 specifically focuses on strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including harmful use of alcohol. The article’s content aligns with this target as it emphasizes the underutilization of medications for AUD treatment.
The article also indirectly refers to Indicator 3.5.1, which measures the coverage of treatment interventions for substance use disorders. The low prescription and retention rates for medications in British Columbia indicate a lack of coverage and access to treatment interventions for AUD.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
The article highlights the disparities in access to medications for AUD based on geographical location. Access to medications was found to be higher in large urban centers compared to rural and remote areas. SDG 10 aims to reduce inequalities and promote social, economic, and political inclusion for all individuals, irrespective of their status or location.
Target 10.2 specifically focuses on empowering and promoting the inclusion of all individuals. The article’s content aligns with this target as it highlights the unequal access to medications for AUD based on geographical location.
Indicator 10.2.1 measures the proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability. While not directly mentioned in the article, the disparities in access to medications for AUD may be influenced by socioeconomic factors, which can contribute to inequalities in healthcare access.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol | Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status | Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: cbc.ca
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