INTRODUCTION: The Cyprus National Addictions Authority (NAAC) is the main coordinating body for all matters related to licit and illicit substances as well as pathological gambling in Cyprus and it is responsible, inter alia, for the licensing, evaluation, funding (where possible), coordination, and reinforcement of all programmes, actions, and activities related to substances and gambling. Licensing and funding are based on the fulfilment of certain criteria and a certain level of quality.

METHODS: The process that led to the establishment of a quality standards system for licensing and...

BACKGROUND: The implementation of quality standards in the treatment of substance use disorders in Lithuania is not well documented in the literature. AIMS: To describe the process of the development of quality standards from grassroots initiatives to their integration into mainstream healthcare under the leadership of the Ministry of Health.

METHODS: Narrative review of retrieved documents, including related legal acts, followed by a subsequent content analysis.

RESULTS: The implementation was divided into three stages characterised by specific activities, leading stakeholders, and the...

Objective: To better understand current developments in the treatment of stimulant use.

Background: Stimulant drugs are second only to cannabis as the most widely used class of illicit drug globally, accounting for 68 million past-year consumers.

In Europe, according to the latest data of the EMCDDA’s European Drug Report 2022, surveys in 25 EU countries between 2016 and 2021 suggest that 1.4 million young adults (15–34) used amphetamines during the last year (1.4 % of this age group). More than 8 000 clients entering specialised drug treatment in Europe in 2020 reported amphetamine as...

The report provides behavioural health professionals, researchers, policymakers and other audiences with a comprehensive research overview and accurate information about effective and ineffective therapeutic practices related to youth of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity.

This report is focused on the experiences and needs of LGBTQI+ children and adolescents up to age 17 years. 

Abstract

The last few years have seen the emergence of new psychoactive substances among the homeless population, specifically synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. The purpose of this study is to investigate the knowledge and experiences of new psychoactive substances amongst users from the homeless population.

An explanatory research design was applied using a semi-structured questionnaire with the focus on gaining insights on the prevalence, motivations and effects.

A total of 105 participants met the inclusion criteria and were in the age range of 18 to 64 years old. Almost 70%...

INTRODUCTION: The study protocol is focused on qualitative and quantitative analysis and reflection of the media image and presentation of direct and hidden alcohol advertising in the Czech mass media, with an emphasis on social network platforms with a high degree of influence on young people. It responds to the need for verified resource points for discussion of the effectiveness and extent of the existing statutory regulation of alcoholic beverage advertising and methods for its possible tightening.

METHODS: For the analysis of traditional (printed) media, the method of content analysis...

BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) and the ensuing global public health emergency situation have led to restrictions, changes, and measures in the daily life of society as a whole. The situation culminated in a global pandemic. A number of strict restrictions were adopted to curb the spread of COVID-19. These also affected athletes. After their return to regular strength and endurance training, there may be changes in preferences and behaviour regarding anabolic androgens and steroids (AAS) in this population segment.

AIM: The aim of the study was to determine whether there is a...

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption are widespread practices that are legal and socially accepted in many societies. One of the common tools to reduce the consumption of these legal drugs is increasing prices. The prices for customers include taxes (value added tax and excise tax). Hundreds of studies from around the world are interested in the impact of taxes and prices on the demand for tobacco products. This topic is also relevant for governments of all countries trying to regulate consumption.

AIM: The aim of the paper is to describe the amount of excise tax on legal drugs...