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Open Access 01-12-2024 | Study protocol

Evaluation of a multi-component prevention concept for hazardous substance use among refugees in shared accommodations: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

Authors: Miriam Hedwig Lorenz, Jonathan Uricher, Markus Iwan Pauzar, Johannes Michalak, Marion Laging, Thomas Heidenreich

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Background

Refugees are exposed to various risk factors in shared accommodations in Germany where they are housed after their arrival. Due to their often traumatic experiences before, during, and after their flight and socio-structural post-migration stressors, refugees are potentially vulnerable to hazardous substance use. They form a structurally disadvantaged group for substance use prevention and intervention. Various barriers make it difficult for them to access the healthcare system and to get health information. Therefore, a participatory multi-component prevention concept for refugees in shared accommodations was developed. The aim of the trial is to evaluate the efficacy of this concept regarding the increase in knowledge about substance use among refugees living in shared accommodations.

Methods

Based on a randomized controlled stepped-wedge design, the study will be conducted in a multicenter setting in nine shared accommodations and will aim to include refugees living in shared accommodations as well as social workers and psychologists working there.

Discussion

This trial will be one of the first to generate evidence about effective participatory prevention concepts for refugees in shared accommodations. Evidence-based concepts for refugees can improve access to health care and might be helpful for the multidisciplinary workforce in shared accommodations.

Trial registration

OSF Registry: osf.io/ebnj3. Registered on May 24, 2024. Registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/EBNJ3.

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Title: Evaluation of a multi-component prevention concept for hazardous substance use among refugees in shared accommodations: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Miriam Hedwig Lorenz
Jonathan Uricher
Markus Iwan Pauzar
Johannes Michalak
Marion Laging
Thomas Heidenreich
Publication date: 01-12-2024
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Trials / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-024-08558-z

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Evaluation of a multi-component prevention concept for hazardous substance use among refugees in shared accommodations: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Methods

Discussion

Trial registration

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Abstract

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Discussion

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