The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65889

Rene' Drumm, PhD, Social Work Department, Andrews University, Nethery Hall 013, Berrien Springs, MI 49104, 616-471-6516, rdrumm@andrews.edu and Duane C. McBride, PhD, Department of Behavioral Science, Andrews University, 123 Nethery Hall, Berrien Springs, MI 49104.

The research literature indicates that there is a relationship between drug use and poor health, extensive health care need, and barriers to accessing the health care system. Given these relationships, it is important to examine how drug users view their health management and the ways they engage in health care.

The purpose of this analysis is to use a grounded theory approach to examine the strategies of self-provided health maintenance and care utilized by injection and chronic drug users. The sample included 28 individuals selected for in-depth interviews as a part of a large quantitative survey project in Miami, Florida. Findings indicate that drug users apply a variety of methods to promote health and engage in self-care. Themes emerged in the areas of physical, nutritional, medical, sexual, emotional/social, and environmental self-care strategies. For example, drug users reported walking, swimming, playing basketball, and roller skating as strategies to get exercise. Nutritionally, drug users described efforts to eat regularly, eat fruits and vegetables, reduce or eliminate meat, “greasy foods” and salt, drink water, and take vitamins.

While health care providers often see drug users as unconcerned about health issues, these data suggest that drug users actively engage in behaviors to manage their health status and needs. Public health professionals should be aware of the ways in which drug users engage in self-care behaviors and build on existing strengths in this population.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to:
• Identify discrete categories of health care management among injection and chronic drug users.
• Assess professional beliefs and values regarding injection and chronic drug users’ health care management approaches.
• Apply presentation findings to initiate strategies that promote increased health management for this at-risk population.

Keywords: Injection Drug Users, Self-Management

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.