Women’s Inhalants Abuse Hotline
Women’s Inhalants Abuse Hotline
Women’s National Inhalants Abuse Statistics
Inhalant abuse is a serious public health concern in the United States, affecting both males and females. However, recent statistics suggest that women may be more susceptible to inhalant abuse than men[1]. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 0.8% of people aged 12 or older reported using inhalants in the past 12 months, with females (12.9%) reporting higher rates of use than males (10.6%)[2]. Additionally, a study conducted in 2015 found that female adolescents were more likely than male adolescents to have used inhalants in the past month[3]. These statistics suggest that inhalant abuse is a significant problem among women in the United States.
Demographic trends and risk factors can also contribute to the prevalence of inhalant abuse among women. NSDUH data from 2020 showed an increased prevalence of past year inhalant use among young adults aged 18-25 years, Asians, and individuals with past year alcohol abuse or dependence[4].
Another study found that 9th-grade female use of inhalants was significantly higher than 9th-grade male use[5]. However, data on sex differences in the health consequences of inhalant misuse are inconclusive[6]. These demographic trends and risk factors highlight the importance of targeted prevention and intervention efforts to address inhalant abuse among women.
Inhalant abuse can have severe health and social consequences for women. The highly concentrated chemicals in solvents or aerosol sprays can cause cardiac, renal, hepatic, and neurological damage[1][7]. Among all past-year inhalant users, 8% met the criteria for an inhalant use disorder, with 6.6% for abuse and 1.1% for dependence[1]. Inhalant abuse can also lead to growth impairments and metabolic dysfunction in females[6]. These adverse health effects underscore the need for increased awareness and education on the dangers of inhalant abuse among women.
References
1. Inhalant Use and Disorders among Adults in the United …. from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1592311/
2. Inhalants – National Drug Threat Assessment 2005. from www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs11/12620/inhal.htm
3. Understanding Adolescent Inhalant Use. from www.samhsa.gov
4. Inhalant use and disorders among adults in the United States. from www.sciencedirect.com
5. Data & Research. (n.d.) retrieved February 18, 2024, from www.consumered.org
6. Harms associated with inhalant misuse in adolescent …. from www.sciencedirect.com
7. What are the other medical consequences of inhalant abuse?. from nida.nih.gov
Women’s Inhalants Abuse Addiction
Women’s inhalant abuse is a significant and often overlooked issue in the realm of substance abuse. Inhalants refer to a broad category of household and industrial products that produce chemical vapors when they are sniffed or huffed. These products are typically not intended for inhalation but are readily available and inexpensive, making them attractive to individuals, including women, seeking a quick and easily accessible high.
Here’s some important information on women’s inhalant abuse:
- Prevalence: Inhalant abuse is more prevalent among adolescents and young adults, but women of all ages can be affected. While statistics specific to women’s inhalant abuse may be limited, research suggests that females are not immune to the dangers of inhalant misuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that approximately 598,000 people aged 12 or older used inhalants for the first time in the United States in 2020.
- Risk Factors: Women may turn to inhalants for various reasons, including curiosity, peer pressure, stress relief, or as a way to cope with underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, women who have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences may be at higher risk of turning to inhalants as a form of self-medication.
- Health Risks: Inhalant abuse can have severe and potentially life-threatening consequences on women’s health. The chemicals found in inhalants can cause damage to the brain, liver, kidneys, and other organs. Short-term effects may include dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, and impaired judgment, while long-term abuse can lead to memory loss, cognitive impairment, and irreversible neurological damage. Inhalant abuse can also result in sudden sniffing death syndrome (SSDS), a condition characterized by cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory arrest.
- Social and Economic Impact: Women who abuse inhalants may face social stigma, isolation, and strained relationships with family and friends. Additionally, inhalant abuse can interfere with daily responsibilities such as work, school, and childcare, leading to financial instability and legal problems. Pregnant women who abuse inhalants also risk serious harm to their unborn babies, including birth defects, developmental delays, and miscarriage.
- Treatment and Support: Overcoming inhalant abuse often requires comprehensive treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Treatment may include detoxification, counseling, behavioral therapy, and support groups. Gender-specific treatment programs tailored to women’s unique needs can provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery. It’s essential for women struggling with inhalant abuse to seek help from healthcare professionals or addiction specialists who can offer guidance, support, and resources for recovery.
Women’s inhalant abuse is a serious public health concern that requires greater awareness, prevention efforts, and access to treatment services. By understanding the risk factors, health consequences, and available support options, we can better address the needs of women affected by inhalant abuse and work towards promoting healthier and safer communities for all.