The Impact of Individual-Level Social Capital in Non-Medical use of Pain Medications Among Individuals 50 Years or Older from Diverse Racial/Ethnic Backgrounds

ABSTRACT

Objectives: In 2014, there were 21.5 million Americans (12 years old or older) that had a substance abuse disorder and almost 2 million of them had a substance use disorder involving prescription pain relievers (SAMHSA, 2014). The misuse of non-medical pain medication (NMPM) is a significant public health problem. This study examines the impact of individual-level social capital in non-medical use of pain medications (NMPM) among individuals 50 years or older. Methods: Data from the 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (n = 11,146) was analyzed using bivariate analysis and logistic regression analysis. Results: Perception of social capital varied by race/ethnicity; White respondents reported the highest rates of non-medical use of pain medications (NMPM) in the past year and lifetime. Social capital was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of NMPM across the various groups in the sample. Discussion: Features of social capital were associated with likelihood of non-medical use of pain medications. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms by which these features of social capital impact NMPM among diverse groups.

KEYWORDS:

• Individual-level social capital
• non-medical use of pain medications
• Diverse Racial/Ethnic groups

Declaration of interest

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