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Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology

Published in:

01-04-2016 | Original Paper

Racial discrimination, socioeconomic position, and illicit drug use among US Blacks

Authors: Hannah Carliner, Erin Delker, David S. Fink, Katherine M. Keyes, Deborah S. Hasin

Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology | Issue 4/2016

Abstract

Purpose

We assessed the relationship of self-reported racial discrimination with illicit drug use among US Blacks, and whether this differed by socioeconomic position (SEP).

Methods

Among 6587 Black participants in Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (2004–2005), we used multiple logistic regression models to test the association between racial discrimination (measured on the 6-item Experiences of Discrimination scale) and past-year illicit drug use, and whether this differed by SEP.

Results

Racial discrimination was associated with past-year drug use [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.32; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.70, 3.16] and with frequent drug use (aOR 1.91; 95 % CI 1.22, 2.99). For frequent illicit drug use, this relationship was stronger among higher SEP participants (aOR 3.55; 95 % CI 2.09, 6.02; p _interaction < 0.01).

Conclusions

The stronger association between racial discrimination and frequent illicit drug use among higher SEP Blacks suggests a complex interplay between disadvantaged and privileged statuses that merits further investigation. The finding of a significant difference by SEP highlights the importance of considering differences within heterogeneous race/ethnic groups when investigating health disparities.

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Title: Racial discrimination, socioeconomic position, and illicit drug use among US Blacks
Authors: Hannah Carliner
Erin Delker
David S. Fink
Katherine M. Keyes
Deborah S. Hasin
Publication date: 01-04-2016
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology / Issue 4/2016
Print ISSN: 0933-7954
Electronic ISSN: 1433-9285
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-016-1174-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Racial discrimination, socioeconomic position, and illicit drug use among US Blacks

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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