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- Title
Substance Use in Humanitarian Settings: A Case from Yemen.
- Authors
Saleh, Ebtesam A.; Wazaify, Mayyada; Khoshnood, Kaveh
- Abstract
Yemen is currently experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, with ongoing civil war, a collapsed health system, and widespread poverty. This crisis has led to an increase in substance use as a coping mechanism for emotional and psychological problems among the affected population. However, addressing the issue of substance use disorders (SUDs) in Yemen is still being neglected, with no national data on the prevalence of substance use and no effective action taken to establish treatment strategies. The problem is further complicated by the use of 'Khat,' a socially and legally accepted natural amphetamine-like substance, which has serious adverse effects on health. The lack of specialized treatment services, mental healthcare providers, and training to identify and manage SUDs exacerbates the situation. Additionally, the high levels of armed violence in Yemen contribute to the problem of SUDs and crime. It is crucial for healthcare providers to enhance their expertise in identifying and managing SUDs in similar humanitarian settings, and for training on substance use and SUDs to be integrated into healthcare curricula. A public health strategy for SUD management, including prevention, harm reduction, and treatment, is urgently needed to address this complex crisis.
- Subjects
YEMEN (Republic); SUBSTANCE abuse; MEDICAL personnel; INTERNALLY displaced persons; MEDICATION abuse
- Publication
Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention & Policy, 2024, Vol 19, Issue 1, p1
- ISSN
1747-597X
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1186/s13011-024-00606-w