Gender Differences and Correlated Factors of Heroin Use Among Heroin Users

ABSTRACT

Background: Gender differences in illicit drug use are becoming increasingly recognized. However, there are few studies concerning differences between male and female heroin users in China. Objectives: The study aimed to explore gender differences in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, drug-related behaviors, and treatment history among a heroin-using population in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four cities in December 2013. A total of 788 participants were recruited from several types of sites in each city: compulsory detoxification centers, methadone maintenance treatment clinics, and detention facilities. The data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire. Analysis of variance, chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine gender differences in socio-demographic characteristics, drug-related behaviors, and treatment history. Results: Female heroin users were more likely to be unemployed, have more education, and use heroin with their spouse/companion (p <.05). Male heroin users were more likely to be in detention facilities and MMT clinics, and relapse when they felt hopeless (p <.05). Conclusions/Importance: Although there were some similarities between male and female heroin users, significant gender differences do exist in some aspects of socio-demographic characteristics and heroin use. The data provide evidence that interventions aimed at preventing the initiation of heroin use and reducing relapse should take gender into account.

KEYWORDS:

• China
• gender difference
• heroin
• initiation
• relapse

Acknowledgments

The authors would especially like to thank the staff at the compulsory detoxification centers, methadone maintenance treatment clinics, and detention facilities in Shanghai, Chongqing, Guiyang, and Xingyi cities. The survey would not have been possible without their hard work. We gratefully thank the National Ministry of Public Security for their coordination work. Also we gratefully thank the participants for agreeing to take part in the investigation.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Funding

This research was funded by the National Narcotics Control Commission (NNCC).