Epidemiology of Inhalant Abuse - Archives - National Institute on ...

First, experience has shown ways to sharpen research methods to improve
the quality <strong>of</strong> information gathering. In survey research, for instance,
asking separate questions about specific inhalants yields rates <strong>of</strong> use that
probably are more accurate and allow a greater depth <strong>of</strong> analysis.
Sampling also is a major concern. Often the most hidden and
hardest-to-reach populations are susceptible to this type <strong>of</strong> drug use.
Findings from the study <strong>of</strong> a transient adult population cited above are a
prime example (New York State Division <strong>of</strong> Substance <strong>Abuse</strong> Services
1988).
Indicators that have been used traditionally in drug abuse research have
little utility in tracking inhalant abuse, as discussed in a previous section.
Very different indicators may be more appropriate. For instance,
ethnographic indicators or indicators that emerge from certain networks
and telephone hotlines may be more sensitive in picking up information
about inhalant use, the occurrence <strong>of</strong> local outbreaks, subpopulations
using them, and consequences <strong>of</strong> use.
An interesting indicator that may have ethnographic value for local areas
is the Regional Alcohol and Drug Awareness Resources network sponsored
by the Federal Government’s Center for Substance <strong>Abuse</strong>
Prevention. The network consists <strong>of</strong> State clearinghouses <strong>of</strong> alcohol and
drug abuse information, specialized information centers <strong>of</strong> national
organizations, and Department <strong>of</strong> Education Regional Training Centers,
whose purpose is to share a variety <strong>of</strong> information that includes electronically
transmitted queries and responses. Given an increasing
concern about rates <strong>of</strong> youthful inhalant abuse by the public and the lack
<strong>of</strong> information, it is likely that inquiries <strong>of</strong> such a network may be worth
monitoring. Monitoring the requests for information on inhalants may
prove to be a useful indication <strong>of</strong> types <strong>of</strong> inhalants being used, where
local outbreaks are occurring, and which subgroups in the population are
involved in use.
The paucity <strong>of</strong> appropriate indicators may point to the inability <strong>of</strong>
selected segments <strong>of</strong> the population to vocalize problems concerning
themselves. Vocalization usually emanates from their advocates. In an
effort to think creatively, one effort might be to encourage or promote
“1-800” telephone hotlines or information lines on alcohol and other
drugs used by youngsters. Although OASAS has maintained a
7-days-a-week, 24-hour, “1-800” information line for more than a decade,
adults usually are the callers. Less than 1 percent <strong>of</strong> the callers to this
telephone line have asked about inhalants. The “1-800” telephone
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