Fentanyl Across Multicultural Settings

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Article posted by Amaria Means, Northwest University 

There is a lack of information regarding the relationship between fentanyl and culture, although there are evident associations between fentanyl use and cultural background. Understanding the impact of culture is crucial for us to address cultural factors influencing fentanyl use effectively. In comprehending the relationship between fentanyl use and culture, we must first examine overall substance use patterns within various cultural contexts.

Substance Use Across Cultures

  • Between 1999 and 2017, nearly 400,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. involved opioids (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration).
  • The rate of opioid misuse and overdose continues to rise, but varies across cultural groups.
  • From 2015 to 2016, drug overdose deaths increased by 21% across the general population.
  • Among Black and African American individuals, the overdose death rate surged by 40% during the same period.

Cultural and Social Influences on Substance Use

  • College Students: Higher stress levels contribute to increased mental health challenges, raising the risk of substance use (Bryant et al., 2020).
  • U.S.-Born Latinx Community: Faces a higher risk of drug and alcohol use compared to Latinx immigrants.
  • Gender Differences in the Latino Population: Latino men have a higher rate of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) than Latina women (Bryant et al., 2020).

Homelessness and Substance Use

  • There is a strong correlation between homelessness and substance misuse.
  • Contributing factors include childhood abuse, early drug exposure, and chronic pain.
  • Cultural background may significantly influence substance use patterns and risk factors

Fentanyl Use and Overdose From a Multicultural Perspective

According to the CDC, from 2015 to 2017, nearly all racial/ethnic groups and age demographics experienced drastic increases in opioid and synthetic opioid-involved death rates. Particularly noteworthy was the surge among Blacks aged 45–54 years (from 19.3 to 41.9 per 100,000) and 55–64 years (from 21.8 to 42.7) in large central metro areas (Lippold, et al, 2019). This underscores that there are cultural implications to drug misuse and overdose, especially within the Black and African American population. Between 2011-2016, Black/African Americans exhibited the highest increase in overdose death rates for opioid deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration).

What do we do? Diversify Treatment

Culture also impacts treatment for individuals with substance use disorders. Culture can affect an individual’s access to treatment, their comfort level, and motivation. For example, one study found that a particular ethnic group refrained from seeking alcohol or drug treatment from a local program due to the lack of staff members from the same ethnic group (Abbott & Chase, 2008). To combat this, it is crucial to consciously diversify treatment facilities and create safe spaces for minority individuals in need. Seeking input from minority communities about treatment options is also essential. Cultural competence in addiction treatment involves understanding and respecting different cultural histories, traditions, values, and belief systems” (How culture affects addiction recovery, 2023). Ensuring that clinicians continually develop cultural competence will be vital in developing a safe and inclusive space for clients of all cultural backgrounds.

‍‍**Please note: This post is for educational purposes only. This post does not constitute medical advice and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns or conditions. The views expressed may not reflect those of all healthcare professionals

Resources

Abbott, P., & Chase, D. (2008). Culture and substance abuse: Impact of culture affects approach to treatment. Psychiatric Times. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/culture-and-substance-abuse-impact-culture-affects-approach-treatment

Bryant, L., Nandan, M., & Cade, S. (2020). Georgia opioid strategic planning, multi-cultural needs assessment. Georgia Department of Public Health. https://attcnetwork.org/sites/default/files/2020-09/GA%20DPH%20report%20--%20Final.pdf

Ranch Creek Recovery. (2023). How culture affects addiction recovery. https://ranchcreekrecovery.com/blog/culture-and-addiction/

Lippold, K., Jones, C., Olsen, E., & Giroir, B. (2019). Racial/ethnic and age group differences in opioid and synthetic opioid-involved overdose deaths among adults aged ≥18 years in metropolitan areas—United States, 2015–2017. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 68(43), 967–973. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/pdfs/mm6843a3-H.pdf

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). The opioid crisis and the Black/African American population: An urgent issue. Office of Behavioral Health Equity. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep20-05-02-001.pdf