A Review of Substance Abuse Research in Malaysia
- Author:
Norliza Chemi
;
Norni Abdullah
;
Anandjit Singh
;
Mohd Fadzli Mohamad Isa
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Substance abuse;
Malaysia;
review;
genetics;
treatment;
outcome;
rehabilitation
- From:
The Medical Journal of Malaysia
2014;69(Supplement A):55-58
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
This is a review of research done in the area of substance
abuse in Malaysia. There were 109 articles related to
substance abuse found in a search through a database
dedicated to indexing all original data relevant to medicine
published in Malaysia between the years 2000-2013. Only 39
articles were reviewed, and case series, case report, reviews
and reports were excluded. Research reviewed include the
epidemiology of substance abuse, genetics, treatment and its
relation to health behaviour, and health management. Studies
have shown that more males than females use drugs. There
was also a high prevalence of blood-bourne virus diseases
and sexually transmitted diseases among drug users. Two
studies showed some genetic polymorphism (Cyp 3a4 gene
and FAAH Pro129Thr) among heroin and amphetamine users
respectively that may contribute to drug dependence. Study
on pharmacological treatment for substance abuse were
limited to methadone and it was shown to improve the quality
of life of heroin dependant patients. Alternative treatments
such as acupunture and spiritual approach play a role in the
management of substance abuse. Data also showed that
treatment centres for substance abuse are lacking facilities
for screening, assessment and treatment for medical illness
related to substance use, e.g. Hepatitis C and tuberculosis.
Studies on the effectiveness of current drug rehabilitation
centres were inconclusive.
- Full text:P020150729537607253796.pdf
