Prevalence of Nonmedical Methamphetamine Use in the United States
Author Information
Author(s): Durell Todd M, Kroutil Larry A, Crits-Christoph Paul, Barchha Nina, Van Brunt David L
Primary Institution: Eli Lilly and Company
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the prevalence and demographic correlates of nonmedical methamphetamine use in the United States.
Conclusion
The estimated lifetime prevalence of methamphetamine use among 18 to 49 year olds was 8.6%, indicating significant use comparable to previous national surveys.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall prevalence of current nonmedical methamphetamine use was estimated to be 0.27%.
- Lifetime use was estimated to be 8.6%.
- Current use rates for men and women did not differ significantly.
- Non-students aged 18 to 25 had higher methamphetamine use rates than students.
Takeaway
This study found that about 1 in 12 adults aged 18 to 49 in the U.S. have used methamphetamine at least once in their life.
Methodology
An internet survey was conducted among noninstitutionalized adults aged 18 to 49, using propensity weighting methods to estimate national prevalence rates.
Potential Biases
There are concerns about potential biases due to self-selection of respondents in the internet survey.
Limitations
The study may not have sufficient power to detect significant differences between demographic subgroups due to the low prevalence of methamphetamine use.
Participant Demographics
Participants were noninstitutionalized adults aged 18 to 49, with a notable overrepresentation of young adults aged 18 to 25 and whites.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0004
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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