Recorded presentation

Beth A. Finnerty, MPH, Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, University of California, Los Angeles, 1640 S Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90025, 310-445-0874x376, finnerty@ucla.edu

Part of proposed Session 91985

Prior to indications of a widespread increase in methamphetamine consumption, problematic methamphetamine use has been endemic in some western geographic regions and among a few subpopulations. Only in recent years have methamphetamine use and its effects captured the wide attention of those involved in drug policy, enforcement, prevention, and treatment. Western cities, such as Denver, Seattle, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and San Diego continue to lead the contiguous U.S. in many methamphetamine-related drug indicators. n addition, several western U.S. cities, such as Sacramento, Spokane, Portland, and Salt Lake City, dominate statistics relating to the percentage of male and female arrestees who test positive (on urinalysis) for recent methamphetamine use, as reported by the Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM) program. Clandestine laboratory seizures in the western United States continues to lead the country in the number of laboratories seized by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Finally, drug trafficking activity along the California-Mexico border continues to be a problem for federal agencies.

The demographic profile of methamphetamine users is now more diversified. In previous years, the majority of methamphetamine users were Non-Hispanic Whites who were likely to occupy lower socioeconomic strata. Now, in addition to this group, data from several sources indicate that other significant cohorts of methamphetamine users include women, Hispanics, and gay/bisexual males. This presentation will synthesize the available indicator data to provide the audience with a comprehensive picture of the trends in methamphetamine abuse in the western United States and along the California Mexico border

Learning Objectives: By the conclusion ofthis presentation attendees will be able to

• Describe the nature and extent of methamphetamine use in the western US and along the California Mexico Border;
• Understand the consequences of "meth" use and abuse in these areas;
• Understand the sequelae of methamphetamine use and abuse among these populations.

Keywords: Epidemiology, Drug Addiction

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.

Recorded presentation