Reliability of roadside oral fluid testing devices for ∆9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9 -THC) detection.

Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) is increasing worldwide, and cannabis is the most prevalent drug after alcohol in impaired driving cases, emphasizing the need for a reliable traffic enforcement strategy. ∆9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) detection in oral fluid has great potential for identifying recent cannabis use; however, additional data are needed on the sensitivities, specificities, and efficiencies of different oral fluid devices for detecting cannabinoids at the roadside by police during routine traffic safety enforcement efforts. At the roadside, 8945 oral fluid THC screening tests were performed with four devices: AquilaScan®, Dräger DrugTest®, WipeAlyser Reader®, and Druglizer®. A total of 530 samples screened positive for THC (5.9%) and were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry at multiple cutoff concentrations (2 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and manufacturers' recommended device cutoffs) to investigate device performance. Results varied substantially, with sensitivities of 0%-96.8%, specificities of 89.8%-98.5%, and efficiencies of 84.3%-97.8%. The Dräger DrugTest® outperformed the other devices with a 96.8% sensitivity, 97.1% specificity, and 97.0% efficiency at a 5-ng/mL LC-MS/MS confirmation cutoff. The WipeAlyser Reader® had good performance with a 91.4% sensitivity, 97.2% specificity, and 96.4% efficiency. AquilaScan® and Druglizer® had unacceptable performance for cannabinoid detection, highlighted by sensitivity <13%. The choice of roadside oral fluid testing device must offer good analytical performance for cannabinoids because of its high prevalence of use and impact on road safety.

Prevalence and factors associated with driving under the influence of alcohol in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUIA) among car drivers and motorcyclists in Brazil and to evaluate the association between DUIA and self-reported Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) in these groups. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from adults aged 18 or older who participated in the 2019 National Health Survey. Probability sampling was used to recruit participants, and data collection was carried out through home visits. Data from 31,246 car drivers and 21,896 motorcyclists were analyzed. Key indicators included the proportion (%) of car drivers who consumed alcohol and then drove in the past 12 months and the proportion (%) of motorcyclists who consumed alcohol and then drove in the past 12 months. Multiple Poisson regression was used to determine factors associated with DUIA and the association of this variable with RTIs in both groups. RESULTS: DUIA prevalence was 9.4% (95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] = 8.8-10.0) among car drivers and 11.2% (95% CI = 10.4-12.1) among motorcyclists. Among car drivers, DUIA prevalence was higher in men, young adults, those without a spouse/partner, and lower in individuals with lower income and education level. Among motorcyclists, DUIA prevalence was higher in men, young adults, those living outside the capitals and metropolitan regions, and lower in individuals with lower income. DUIA increased the prevalence of self-reported RTIs in the previous 12 months among car drivers and motorcyclists. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of DUIA was evident among drivers, particularly motorcyclists. The DUIA was more prevalent among men and young adults. The DUIA was associated with an increased magnitude of self-reported RTIs among car drivers and motorcyclists. Despite the extensive legislation for zero tolerance toward DUIA in the country, actions need stricter enforcement.

Risk Perception of Traffic Accidents Due to Alcohol and Marijuana Use in Mexican College Students.

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and other drugs is a common occurrence in Western societies. Alcohol consumption is related to 15% of fatal injuries in traffic accidents worldwide, with those DUI of alcohol being up to 18 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident. Evidence for DUI of alcohol or marijuana among the college population in Mexico is scarce. This research estimates the proportion of use of alcohol and marijuana, describes the risk perception of DUI, and evaluates the relationship between risk perception and DUI behaviors in a sample of Mexican college students aged 18 to 29. The study was cross-sectional with a non-probabilistic sample. Risk perception of suffering traffic accidents when DUI or riding with someone DUI of alcohol, marijuana, or both, was high, unlike the risk perception of being detected or sanctioned for a DUI of marijuana. The study provided valuable information on the risk perception of engaging in behaviors related to DUI of alcohol and/or marijuana. It is necessary to undertake research on the subject with probabilistic and representative samples of this population of Mexico.

Uber use after alcohol consumption among car/motorcycle drivers in ten Brazilian capitals

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE This study aimed to measure the proportion of Uber use instead of drinking and driving in ten Brazilian capitals, in 2019. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was developed in ten Brazilian capitals. Data were collected in agglomeration points (AP) and sobriety checkpoints (SC). Based on responses to a standardized questionnaire, the proportion of drivers who used Uber instead of drinking and driving was measured for total sample of each methodology and stratified by municipality, age group, gender, education level, and type of vehicle. Fisher's exact test was used to make comparisons between the strata. RESULTS A total of 8,864 drivers were interviewed. The most used means of transport to replace driving after drinking alcohol was the Uber system (AP: 54.6%; 95%CI: 51.2-58.0. SC: 58.6%; 95%CI: 55.2-61.9). Most of these users were aged from 18 to 29 years, women, with at least one higher education degree. According to the AP methodology, the highest magnitude of this indicator was found in Vitória (ES) (71.0%; 95%CI: 63.5-77.5), whereas the lowest was observed in Teresina (PI) (33.1%; 95%CI: 22.7-45.5). According to the SC methodology, the highest magnitude of the indicator was also found in Vitória (ES) (78.3%; 95%CI: 68.8-85.5), whereas the lowest was observed in Boa Vista (RR) (36.6%; 95%CI: 26.8-47.7). CONCLUSION In Brazilian capitals, the study showed higher proportions of Uber use instead of drinking and driving. This type of scientific evidence on factors associated with road traffic injuries presents the potential to guide public health interventions.

The habit of drinking and driving in Brazil: National Survey of Health 2013 and 2019 / O hábito de beber e dirigir no Brasil: Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde, 2013 e 2019

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To assess factors associated with the habit of drinking and driving and estimating the variations in the prevalence of this behavior in 2013 and 2019, considering information from the two editions of the Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS - National Survey of Health). METHODS PNS is a nationwide cross-sectional home-based study. In 2013 and 2019, 60,202 and 85,854 individuals were interviewed, respectively. To assess the association between the indicator "drinking and driving" and the study variables, crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using logistic regression models. To compare the prevalence between the studied years, a Pearson's chi-squared test adjusted by the Rao-Scott correction (which considers the effect of the sampling plan) and converted into an F statistic, tested at a 5% significance level, was used. RESULTS The prevalence of drinking and driving was higher among men in 2013 (27.4%; 95%CI 25.6-29.3%) and 2019 (20.5%; 95%CI 19.4-21.7%) than among women (11.9%; 95%CI 9.9-14.2% and 7.2%; 95%CI 6.7-9.0%, respectively). Inidviduals aged 30 to 39, who lived without a partner, in rural areas, and were motorcycle drivers had significantly higher estimates. Men with higher income had higher prevalence of drinking and driving. From 2013 to 2019, the act of drinking and driving significantly decreased. Regarding traffic accidents, ORs were significant (p < 0.01) in the studied years for both men and women. DISCUSSION Results show the need to continue policies to monitor blood alcohol level and traffic education, with specific actions directed to rural areas and motorcycle drivers.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Investigar os fatores associados ao hábito de beber e dirigir, bem como estimar as variações nas prevalências desse comportamento entre os anos de 2013 e 2019, por meio das informações das duas edições da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS). MÉTODOS A PNS é um estudo transversal, de âmbito nacional e base domiciliar. Nos anos de 2013 e 2019, foram entrevistados, respectivamente, 60.202 e 85.854 indivíduos. Para investigar a associação entre o indicador "beber e dirigir" e as variáveis do estudo, as razões de chances (RC) brutas e ajustadas foram estimadas por meio de modelos de regressão logística. Para a comparação das prevalências entre os anos estudados, foi utilizado o teste Qui-Quadrado de Pearson ajustado pela correção de Rao-Scott (que leva em consideração o efeito do plano de amostragem) e convertido em uma estatística F, testada no nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS A prevalência do hábito de beber e dirigir foi maior entre os homens no ano de 2013 (27,4%; IC95% 25,6-29,3%) e no ano de 2019 (20,5%; IC95% 19,4-21,7%) do que entre as mulheres (11,9%; IC95% 9,9-14,2% e 7,2%; IC95% 6,7-9,0%, respectivamente). Estimativas significativamente mais altas foram apresentadas por pessoas de 30 anos a 39 anos, que vivem sem companheiro(a), residentes em áreas rurais e condutores de motocicleta. Maiores prevalências de beber e dirigir foram encontradas entre homens que possuem maior rendimento. Entre os anos de 2013 e 2019, foi observado um decréscimo significativo no ato de beber e dirigir. Quanto ao envolvimento em acidentes de trânsito, as RC foram significativas (p < 0,01) nos anos estudados em ambos os sexos. DISCUSSÃO Os resultados mostram a necessidade de dar continuidade às políticas de fiscalização de alcoolemia e educação no trânsito, com ações específicas dirigidas às áreas rurais e aos condutores de motocicletas.

Inequalities in alcohol consumption and cell phone use while driving motor vehicles / Desigualdades en el consumo de alcohol y uso del teléfono celular durante la conducción de vehículos motorizados / Desigualdades no consumo de álcool e uso de celular durante a direção de veículos motorizados

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate social inequalities of Brazilians in alcohol consumption and cell phone use while driving motor vehicles. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted with people who drive (n=23,474) in 2019. The outcomes adopted were cell phone use and alcohol consumption while driving, associated with the variables gender, age group, skin color, education and macro-region of housing and analyzed using the slope index of inequality using logistic regression. Results: The inequalities related to alcohol consumption and driving were identified in adults with brown skin color (7.8) linked to the North region (6.8). As for cell phone use while driving, they were higher for the younger age group (19.4) and individuals with higher education (27.1). Conclusion: Cell phone use and alcohol consumption while driving motor vehicles have social inequalities regarding the age group and education, and skin color and macro-region respectively.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar las desigualdades sociales de brasilenõs en el consumo de alcohol y el uso de teléfono celular durante la conducción de vehículos motorizados. Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado con personas que condujeron (n=23.474) en 2019. Los resultados adoptados fueron el uso de teléfonos celulares y el consumo de alcohol durante la conducción, asociados a las variables sexo, grupo de edad, color de piel, educación y macrorregión de residencia. Las desigualdades se analizaron mediante el slope index of inequality y regresión logística. Resultados: Las desigualdades relacionadas con el consumo de alcohol y la conducción como desigualdades se identificaron en adultos de piel morena (7,8) vinculados a la región Norte (6,8). En cuanto a uso de teléfonos celulares en la conducción fueron mayores para el grupo de edad más joven (19,4), y obligatorias con la educación superior (27,1). Conclusión: El uso de teléfonos celulares y el consumo de alcohol en la dirección de vehículos motorizados tiene desigualdades sociales en cuanto a edad y educación, color de piel y región geográfica respectivamente.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as desigualdades sociais de brasileiros (as) no consumo de bebida alcoólica e uso de celular durante a direção de veículos motorizados. Métodos: estudo transversal realizado com pessoas que dirigiam (n=23.474) em 2019. Os desfechos adotados foram o uso de celular e consumo de bebida alcoólica durante a direção, associado as variáveis sexo, faixa etária, cor da pele, escolaridade e macrorregião de moradia e analisadas através dos índices slope index of inequality a partir de regressão logística. Resultados: as desigualdades relacionadas ao uso de álcool e direção as desigualdades foram identificadas em adultos de cor da pele parda (7,8) vinculados a Região Norte (6,8). Quanto ao uso de celular na direção foram maiores para faixa etária mais jovem (19,4) e indivíduos com maior escolaridade (27,1). Conclusão: uso de celular e consumo de álcool na direção de veículos motorizados possui desigualdades sociais referente a faixa etária e escolaridade, e a cor de pele e macrorregião respectivamente.

Road traffic injuries and substance use among emergency department patients in the Dominican Republic and Peru.

OBJECTIVE: To report demographic and substance use characteristics and risk of road traffic injury (RTI) from alcohol use, cannabis use, and combined use in a sample of emergency department patients from two countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. METHODS: A cross-sectional study in which patients 18 years and older admitted within six hours of suffering an RTI to one emergency department in Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic (n = 501) and in Lima, Peru (n = 431) were interviewed. Case-crossover analysis, based on self-reported use prior to the RTI, was used to analyze risk from alcohol, cannabis, and co-use. RESULTS: Overall, 15.3% reported alcohol use prior to the event and 2.5% cannabis use. Drivers using alcohol only were over twice as likely to have an RTI (OR = 2.46, p < 0.001), and nearly eight times more likely if using both alcohol and cannabis (OR = 6.89, p < 0.01), but risk was not elevated for cannabis alone. Significant differences were not found for passengers or pedestrians. CONCLUSIONS: Risk of RTI for drivers in these two samples is significantly elevated from alcohol use, and more so for co-use with cannabis. Differences between the two countries underscore the need for similar data from the region to determine risk of RTI from substance use, including risk for passengers and pedestrians. Data suggest that alcohol contributes significantly to the burden of RTI, which calls for more stringent enforcement of alcohol control policy related to drink driving in the region.

Road traffic injuries and substance use among emergency department patients in the Dominican Republic and Peru / Traumatismos causados por el tránsito y consumo de sustancias psicoactivas en pacientes del departamento de urgencias en Perú y República Dominicana / Lesões por acidentes de trânsito e uso de substâncias químicas em pacientes que deram entrada no setor de emergência na República Dominicana e Peru

ABSTRACT Objective. To report demographic and substance use characteristics and risk of road traffic injury (RTI) from alcohol use, cannabis use, and combined use in a sample of emergency department patients from two countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods. A cross-sectional study in which patients 18 years and older admitted within six hours of suffering an RTI to one emergency department in Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic (n = 501) and in Lima, Peru (n = 431) were interviewed. Case-crossover analysis, based on self-reported use prior to the RTI, was used to analyze risk from alcohol, cannabis, and co-use. Results. Overall, 15.3% reported alcohol use prior to the event and 2.5% cannabis use. Drivers using alcohol only were over twice as likely to have an RTI (OR = 2.46, p < 0.001), and nearly eight times more likely if using both alcohol and cannabis (OR = 6.89, p < 0.01), but risk was not elevated for cannabis alone. Significant differences were not found for passengers or pedestrians. Conclusions. Risk of RTI for drivers in these two samples is significantly elevated from alcohol use, and more so for co-use with cannabis. Differences between the two countries underscore the need for similar data from the region to determine risk of RTI from substance use, including risk for passengers and pedestrians. Data suggest that alcohol contributes significantly to the burden of RTI, which calls for more stringent enforcement of alcohol control policy related to drink driving in the region.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Presentar las características demográficas y de consumo de sustancias psicoactivas y el riesgo de traumatismos causados por el tránsito debidos al consumo de alcohol, cannabis y su consumo combinado en una muestra de pacientes del departamento de urgencias de dos países de América Latina y el Caribe. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal en que se entrevistaron pacientes de 18 años o más ingresados en las siguientes seis horas de haber recibido traumatismos causados por el tránsito en un departamento de urgencias en Lima (Perú) (n = 431) y en Santo Domingo (República Dominicana) (n = 501). Se empleó el análisis de cruce de casos, basado en el consumo autoinformado con anterioridad a los traumatismos causados por el tránsito, para evaluar el riesgo por consumo de alcohol, cannabis y consumo combinado. Resultados. En términos generales, 15,3% notificó consumo de alcohol con anterioridad al evento y 2,5%, consumo de cannabis. Los conductores que consumieron alcohol únicamente tuvieron más del doble de probabilidades de sufrir traumatismos causados por el tránsito (OR = 2,46, p < 0,001) y casi ocho veces más probabilidades si consumieron tanto alcohol como cannabis (OR = 6,89, p < 0,01), si bien el riesgo no fue tan elevado para el consumo único de cannabis. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en pasajeros o peatones. Conclusiones. El riesgo de sufrir traumatismos causados por el tránsito para los conductores en estas dos muestras es significativamente más elevado por el consumo de alcohol y más aún por el consumo combinado con cannabis. Las diferencias entre ambos países ponen de manifiesto la necesidad de obtener datos similares sobre la región para determinar el riesgo de sufrir traumatismos causados por el tránsito debidos al consumo de sustancias psicoactivas, así como el riesgo para pasajeros y peatones. Los datos indican que el alcohol agrava significativamente la carga de los traumatismos causados por el tránsito, lo que exige un cumplimiento más estricto de las políticas de control del alcohol relacionadas con la conducción bajo los efectos del alcohol en la región.

RESUMO Objetivo. Descrever as características demográficas e uso de substâncias químicas e o risco de lesões por acidentes de trânsito associados ao consumo de álcool, uso de cannabis (maconha) e uso combinado de álcool e cannabis em uma amostra de pacientes que deram entrada no setor de emergência em dois países da América Latina e no Caribe. Métodos. Estudo transversal em que foram entrevistados pacientes maiores de 18 anos que deram entrada no setor de emergência no espaço de seis horas após sofrerem lesões por acidentes de trânsito em Santo Domingo, na República Dominicana (n = 501), e em Lima, Peru (n = 431). Foi realizada uma análise cruzada de casos com dados obtidos do autorrelato do uso de substâncias químicas anterior ao acidente de trânsito para avaliar o risco associado ao consumo de álcool, uso de cannabis e uso combinado. Resultados. Dos pacientes entrevistados, 15,3% relataram consumo de álcool e 2,5% referiram uso de cannabis antes do acidente. Os condutores que fizeram uso de álcool tiveram uma chance duas vezes maior de ter lesões por acidente de trânsito (OR = 2,46, p < 0,001) e uma chance de cerca de oito vezes maior com o uso combinado de álcool e cannabis (OR = 6,89, p < 0,01). Porém, o risco não foi elevado com o uso somente de cannabis. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no risco para passageiros ou pedestres. Conclusões. Verificou-se que o risco de lesões por acidentes de trânsito para os condutores nas duas amostras estudadas foi significativamente elevado com o consumo de álcool e foi ainda maior com o uso combinado de álcool e cannabis. As diferenças entre os dois países reforçam a necessidade de dados semelhantes da Região para determinar o risco de lesões por acidentes de trânsito com o uso de substâncias químicas, inclusive para determinar o risco para passageiros e pedestres. Os dados indicam que o álcool contribui significativamente à carga de lesões por acidentes de trânsito requerendo o cumprimento mais rigoroso da política de controle do consumo de álcool associado à condução de veículos na Região.

Drug use and driving behaviors among drivers with and without alcohol-related infractions

Abstract Introduction Brazil is one of the countries with the highest rates of alcohol-related traffic infractions, but little is known about the profile of the drivers who commit them. Identifying the characteristics of impaired drivers is essential for planning preventive actions. Objective To compare drug use and driving behavior profiles of drivers with and without alcohol-related infractions. Methods 178 drivers stopped at routine roadblocks were assessed by traffic agents who conducted standard roadblock procedures (document verification; request of a breathalyzer test [BT]). Drug use and driving behavior data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Subjects were divided into three groups: drivers who refused the BT (RDs, n = 72), drivers who tested positive on the BT (PDs, n = 34), and drivers who had committed other infractions (ODs, n = 72). Results The proportion of alcohol use in the last year was higher among RDs (100%) than in the PD and OD groups (97.1% and 72.2% respectively, p < 0.001). Lifetime prevalence of cannabis and cocaine use for the overall sample was 44.3% and 18.2%, respectively. Fewer individuals in the OD group (31.5%) reported having been stopped at roadblocks in the previous year compared to the PDs (55.9%) and RDs (48.6%, p = 0.03). However, a higher proportion of RDs reported drunk driving in the same period (87.5%; PD 69.7%; OD 26.9%; p < 0.001). Conclusion Essential differences among groups were observed. RDs had a higher proportion of alcohol use and drunk driving in the previous year; drivers who fit into this particular group may be unresponsive or less responsive to social deterrence and enforcement actions.

Predictive factors associated with driving under the influence among Brazilian drug-using drivers.

The incidence of driving under the influence of psychoactive substances (DUI) and its recidivism can be curtailed by the proper identification of specific and predictive characteristics among drug users. In this sense, interpersonal violence (IV), psychiatric comorbidity and impulsivity seem to play an important role in DUI engagement according to previous studies. There are, however, limited data originated from low and middle income countries. In the present study, drug-using Brazilian drivers reporting DUI (n = 75) presented a higher prevalence of bipolar disorders (BD; DUI: 8% vs. non-DUI: 0%, p < 0.001), lower prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD; DUI: 0% vs. non-DUI: 12.6%, p < 0.001), and higher prevalence of childhood trauma (DUI: 65.3% vs. non-DUI: 46.8%, p = 0.022) than those not reporting DUI (n = 79). The evaluation of impulsivity though the Barratt Impulsivity Scale, which give impulsivity scores ranging from 30 to 120, showed higher impulsivity scores in the DUI group (80.4 ± 8) than in the non-DUI group (77.2 ± 10, p = 0.045). In general, subjects were young adults (mean age of 36 ± 9 years), Caucasians (58.4%), not married (61.0%), and with elementary schooling (40.3%) with no significant differences in demographic characteristics between drivers with and without DUI behavior. A multiple Poisson regression model showed that individuals reporting IV as perpetrators and history of childhood trauma were more likely to report DUI (PR: 1.66, 95%CI 1.22-2.7; PR: 1.57, 95%CI 1.02-2.42, respectively). The overlapping of violent situations (childhood trauma, IV and DUI) in some individuals presented here corroborates literature data suggesting that DUI can be an externalizing expression of a range of risky behavior, such as impulsiveness and aggressiveness. Moreover, while BD and higher impulsivity scores seem to act as risk factors for DUI, OCD was shown as a protective factor. These results corroborate the hypothesis that individuals with high risk for DUI could probably be identified by multidimensional assessment of cognitive, risky taking, and personality traits, which perhaps could facilitate the development of focused interventions.

Risk perception and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis: a study with college students of a private institution / Percepción de riesgo y conducción de vehículo automotor bajo los efectos de la marihuana: un estudio con universitarios de una institución particular / Percepção de risco e condução de veículo automotor sob o efeito de maconha: um estudo com universitários de uma instituição particular

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the relationship between risk perception and behaviors related to driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis. Method: The research was carried out through a cross-sectional survey. 382 undergraduate students between the ages of 17 and 29 were interviewed at a private higher educational institution in the Federal District, Brazil. Descriptive and inferential statistics (cross tabulations and chi-square) were used to analyze the data. Results: they indicate that more than 1/3 of the participants used cannabis in the past 12 months, and 36.4% reported problematic use. It was possible to establish a relationship between the behaviors of perception of risk and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis: 1) the perception of being sanctioned as a driver and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis (χ2(1) = 3.96, p=≤0); 2) to perceive damages as driver and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis (χ2(1)=3.96, p = ≤05); 3) perception of damages as passenger and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis (χ2(1)=3.96, p=≤5.0). Conclusion: damages caused by cannabis are underestimated by university students, since they have a very low risk perception, especially when compared to alcohol. In Brazil, there is also a lack of regulation and sanctions with respect to driving a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis, which may contribute to an important risk among this population.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la relación entre percepción de riesgo y conductas relacionadas a la conducción de vehículo automotor bajo los efectos de la marihuana. Método: investigación realizada por medio de un survey transversal. Se entrevistaron a 382 estudiantes de grado entre 17 y 29 años de edad en una institución privada de enseñanza superior en el Distrito Federal, Brasil. Para analizar los datos, se realizaron estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales (tabulaciones cruzadas y chi-cuadrado). Resultados: indican que más de 1/3 de los participantes consumieron marihuana en los últimos 12 meses; 36,4% relató uso problemático. Se pudo establecer una relación entre la conducta y la percepción de riesgo en el vehículo propulsado y conducido bajo los efectos de la marihuana: 1) la percepción de ser sancionado como conductor del vehículo y el efecto de conducción de la marihuana (χ2(1) = 3,96, p = ≤ ,0); 2) notar los daños como conductor del vehículo y conducir el vehículo bajo los efectos de la marihuana (χ2(1) = 3,96, p = ≤05); 3) la percepción del daño como pasajero y conducción de un vehículo automotor bajo los efectos de la marihuana (χ2(1) = 96, p = ≤5,0). Conclusión: los estudiantes universitarios subestiman las pérdidas que genera la marihuana, dado que para ellos presenta una percepción de riesgo muy reducida, sobre todo cuando se la compara con el alcohol. En Brasil, también hay una falta de reglamentación y sanciones en relación a la conducción de vehículo automotor bajo efecto de la marihuana, lo que puede contribuir a un riesgo importante en esta población.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a relação entre percepção de risco e comportamentos relacionados à condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha. Método: A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de um survey transversal. 382 estudantes de graduação entre 17 e 29 anos de idade foram entrevistados em uma instituição privada de ensino superior no Distrito Federal, Brasil. Foram realizadas estatísticas descritivas e inferenciais (tabulações cruzadas e qui-quadrado), utilizadas para a análise dos dados. RESULTADOS: indicam que mais de 1/3 dos participantes usaram maconha nos últimos 12 meses, 36,4% relataram uso problemático. Foi possível estabelecer uma relação entre os comportamentos percepção de risco e condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha: 1) a percepção de ser sancionado como motorista e condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha (χ2(1)=3,96, p=≤,0); 2) perceber danos como motorista e condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha (χ2(1)=3,96, p=≤05); 3) percepção de dano como passageiro e condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha (χ2(1)=,96, p=≤5,0). CONCLUSÃO: a maconha tem prejuízos subestimados pelos estudantes universitários, pois apresentam uma percepção de risco muito reduzida, especialmente quando comparada ao álcool. No Brasil, também há uma falta de regulamentação e sanções em relação à condução de veículo automotor sob efeito de maconha, o que pode contribuir para um risco importante entre essa população.

Estimating the drink driving attributable fraction of road traffic deaths in Mexico.

AIM: To estimate the Drink Driving Attributable Fraction (DDAF) of road traffic injury mortality in car occupants in Mexico during 2010-13. DESIGN: A case-control study was conducted to examine the presence of alcohol in analysed body fluids of car occupants killed in fatal crashes (cases) compared with car drivers tested in alcohol-testing checkpoints who were not involved in a fatal collision (controls). Two data sets were used for the period 2010-13: the forensic module of the Epidemiological Surveillance System on Addictions that included car occupants killed in a collision (cases) and a data set from alcohol-testing at police checkpoints available for matching municipalities (controls). SETTING: Mexico. PARTICIPANTS: The analysed study sample included 1718 car occupants killed in a traffic collision and 80 656 drivers tested at alcohol police checkpoints, all from 10 municipalities. MEASUREMENTS: Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) of presence of alcohol in body fluids were obtained stratified by sex and age groups and the interaction with these two variables were assessed. The ORs were used to calculate the DDAF. FINDINGS: It was estimated that 19.5% of car occupants' deaths due to road traffic injuries were attributable to alcohol consumption [95% confidence interval (CI) = 19.1-19.9]. The adjusted OR of presence of alcohol was 6.84 (95% CI = 6.06-7.71) overall. For males it was 7.21 (95% CI = 6.35-8.18) and for females it was 4.45 (95% CI = 3.01-6.60). The ORs were similar across younger age bands (10-19 years: 9.61, 95% CI = 6.72-13.73; 20-29 years: 7.70, 95% CI = 6.28-9.4; and 30-49 years: 7.21, 95% CI = 5.98-8.70); and lower but still elevated among older people (50+ years: 3.19, 95% CI = 2.19-4.65). CONCLUSIONS: An estimated 19.5% of car occupant deaths in Mexico may have been caused by alcohol in 2010-13.

A systematic review of the effectiveness of interventions to reduce motor vehicle crashes and their injuries among the general and working populations.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the best available international scientific evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to reduce motor vehicle collisions and their consequences among the working and general populations. METHODS: A broad and systematic review was conducted of the literature available in biomedical databases and grey literature. At least two investigators working in parallel performed data extraction, synthesis, and risk of bias analysis. RESULTS: Forty-one studies with low to moderate risk of bias were included. Of these, 18 had an ecological design (time series), 10 were quasi-experimental, one was a population survey, one was a randomized clinical trial, and 11 were systematic reviews. CONCLUSIONS: The interventions that most consistently show a positive effect on incidence, morbidity, and mortality due to motor vehicle collisions are national policies or programs that: regulate, enforce, and penalize driving under the influence of alcohol; improve driving safety and driver conditions; improve road infrastructure with the purpose of preventing collisions; and educate and penalize drivers with a history of road violations.

A systematic review of the effectiveness of interventions to reduce motor vehicle crashes and their injuries among the general and working populations / Revisión sistemática de la efectividad de las intervenciones para reducir las colisiones de vehículos de motor y lesiones Asociados Resultantes en la población general y la población económicamente activa / Revisão sistemática da efetividade de intervenções para reduzir os acidentes de trânsito e ferimentos na população geral e na população ativa

ABSTRACT Objective To summarize the best available international scientific evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to reduce motor vehicle collisions and their consequences among the working and general populations. Methods A broad and systematic review was conducted of the literature available in biomedical databases and grey literature. At least two investigators working in parallel performed data extraction, synthesis, and risk of bias analysis. Results Forty-one studies with low to moderate risk of bias were included. Of these, 18 had an ecological design (time series), 10 were quasi-experimental, one was a population survey, one was a randomized clinical trial, and 11 were systematic reviews. Conclusions The interventions that most consistently show a positive effect on incidence, morbidity, and mortality due to motor vehicle collisions are national policies or programs that: regulate, enforce, and penalize driving under the influence of alcohol; improve driving safety and driver conditions; improve road infrastructure with the purpose of preventing collisions; and educate and penalize drivers with a history of road violations.

RESUMEN Objetivo Resumir la mejor evidencia disponible a nivel internacional sobre la efectividad de las intervenciones para reducir el número de colisiones de vehículos de motor y sus consecuencias en la población general y la población económicamente activa. Métodos Revisión amplia y sistemática de la bibliografía contenida en las bases de datos biomédicas y la literatura gris. Al menos dos investigadores trabajando en paralelo realizaron la extracción de datos, la síntesis y el análisis del riesgo de sesgo. Resultados Se incluyeron 41 estudios con un riesgo de sesgo bajo o moderado. De ellos, 18 tenían un diseño ecológico (series de tiempo), 10 eran cuasiexperimentales, 1 era una encuesta poblacional, 1 era un ensayo clínico aleatorizado y 11 eran revisiones sistemáticas. Conclusiones Las intervenciones que muestran más sistemáticamente un efecto positivo sobre la incidencia, la morbilidad y la mortalidad por colisiones de vehículos de motor son las políticas o programas nacionales que reglamentan, hacen cumplir los reglamentos y sancionan a quienes conducen bajo los efectos del alcohol; mejoran la seguridad al conducir y con respecto a los conductores; mejoran la infraestructura vial a fin de prevenir las colisiones; y educan y sancionan a los conductores con antecedentes de infracciones de las leyes de tránsito.

RESUMO Objetivo Sintetizar as melhores evidências científicas internacionais disponíveis sobre a efetividade das intervenções para reduzir os acidentes de trânsito e suas consequências na população geral e na população ativa. Métodos Foi realizada uma ampla revisão sistemática da literatura em bases de dados biomédicas e da literatura cinzenta. A extração e a síntese dos dados e a análise de risco de viés foram conduzidas em paralelo por, pelo menos, dois pesquisadores. Resultados Foram selecionados para análise 41 estudos com risco de viés baixo a moderado. Destes, 18 possuíam design ecológico (série temporal), 10 eram estudos quase-experimentais, um estudo era um levantamento populacional, um era um estudo clínico randomizado e 11 eram revisões sistemáticas. Conclusões As intervenções que sistematicamente demonstraram um efeito positivo na incidência, morbidade e mortalidade de acidentes de trânsito são as políticas ou programas nacionais para regulamentar, cumprir as leis e aplicar sanções aos condutores que dirigem sob influência de álcool, melhorar a segurança e condições para condução de veículos, melhorar a infraestrutura viária visando evitar acidentes e educar e multar os condutores com histórico de infrações.

Avaliação de uma intervenção preventiva em motoristas usuários e não usuários de álcool - um estudo piloto / Evaluation of a preventive intervention in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drivers - a pilot study / Evaluación de una intervención preventiva en conductores usuarios y no usuarios de alcohol - un estudio piloto

Neste estudo piloto avaliamos os comportamentos de beber e dirigir e os conceitos de autocrítica sobre este tema em indivíduos que pretendiam dirigir após a saída de bares e restaurantes. Também avaliamos a eficácia de uma intervenção preventiva em seus comportamentos futuros de beber e dirigir. Os participantes tiveram seus níveis de alcoolemia (BAC) avaliados e responderam um questionário, recebendo um folheto informativo durante a intervenção breve. A maioria dos participantes (69%) apresentaram BAC abaixo dos limites criminais estabelecidos por lei e 31% acima deste limite. Após um mês, o questionário foi novamente aplicado e não se observou redução significativa no comportamento de beber e dirigir após um mês, indicando a necessidade de intervenções mais efetivas.

In this pilot study, we evaluated the drinking and driving behavior and the concepts of self-assessment on this theme of people who had consumed alcohol and intended to drive a motor vehicle after leaving bars and restaurants. We also evaluated the efficacy of a preventive intervention on their future behavior. The participants had their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) evaluated, answered a questionnaire and received a booklet during a very brief intervention. Most of the participants (69%) had BAC below the legally permitted level, and 31% above it. One month later, they answered the questionnaire once more and no significant reduction was observed in the use of alcohol before driving after the intervention, indicating the need for more effective interventions.

En este estudio piloto evaluamos los comportamientos de consumo de alcohol y los conceptos de autocrítica sobre este tema en personas con intención de conducir un vehículo automotor después de salir de bares y restaurantes. También evaluamos la eficacia de una intervención preventiva en comportamiento futuro de beber y conducir. Nosotros evaluamos el nivel de alcoholemia en la sangre (BAC) de los participantes, seguido de un cuestionario. Los participantes también recibieron durante la intervención un prospecto con información acerca del consumo de alcohol e accidentes de tráfico. La mayoría de los participantes (69%) estaban por debajo de los límites legales de BAC y el 31% por encima de este límite. Después de un mes, el cuestionario se aplicó de nuevo y no detectamos ninguna reducción en la conducta de beber y conducir, indicando la necesidad de intervenciones más eficaces.

Prevalence of driving under the influence of psychoactive substances and road traffic crashes among Brazilian crack-using drivers.

BACKGROUND: Substance use disorders are associated with the increased risk of driving under the influence (DUI), but little is known about crack-cocaine and its relationship with road traffic crashes (RTC). METHOD: A multicenter sample of 765 crack-cocaine users was recruited in six Brazilian capitals in order to estimate the prevalence of DUI and RTC involvement. Legal, psychiatric, and drug-use aspects related with traffic safety were evaluated using the Addiction Severity Index - 6th version (ASI-6) and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. RESULTS: Seventy-six (28.3%) current drivers reported accident involvement following crack-cocaine use. Among drivers (n=269), 45.7% and 30.5% reported DUIs in the past 6 months and 30 days, respectively. Drivers reporting DUI's in the past month (n=82) had higher scores in the "psychiatric", "legal", and "family problems" subscales from the ASI-6, and lower scores in the "family social support" subscale in comparison to those without a history of DUIs (n=187). An overall high prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity and substance consumption was observed. Participants with 5+ years of crack-cocaine use were more likely to have been in a RTC (RR=1.52, 95%IC: 1.02-2.75), independently of marijuana use, binge drinking and psychiatric comorbidities. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of RTC and DUI involvement among crack-using drivers supports the idea that they are at a high risk group regarding traffic safety. Years of crack consumption seem to be associated with RTC involvement. Also, the presence of psychiatric comorbidities, poly-drug use, and cognitive impairment usually associated with crack addiction could yield additional risk of accidents.

International trends in alcohol and drug use among vehicle drivers.

Trends in the use of alcohol and drugs among motor vehicle drivers in Australia, Brazil, Norway, Spain, and the United States have been reviewed. Laws, regulations, enforcement, and studies on alcohol and drugs in biological samples from motor vehicle drivers in general road traffic and fatal road traffic crashes (RTCs) are discussed. Roadside surveys showed a reduction of drunk driving over time in the studied countries; however, the pattern varied within and between different countries. The reduction of alcohol use may be related to changes in road traffic laws, public information campaigns, and enforcement, including implementation of random breath testing or sobriety checkpoints. For non-alcohol drugs, the trend in general road traffic is an increase in use. However, drugs were not included in older studies; it is therefore impossible to assess the trends over longer time periods. Data from the studied countries, except Brazil, have shown a significant decrease in fatal RTCs per 100,000 inhabitants over the last decades; from 18.6 to 4.9 in Australia, 14.5 to 2.9 in Norway, 11.1 to 3.6 in Spain, and 19.3 to 10.3 in the United States. The number of alcohol-related fatal RTCs also decreased during the same time period. The proportion of fatal RTCs related to non-alcohol drugs increased, particularly for cannabis and stimulants. A general challenge when comparing alcohol and drug findings in biological samples from several countries is connected to differences in study design, particularly the time period for performing roadside surveys, biological matrix types, drugs included in the analytical program, and the cutoff limits used for evaluation of results. For RTC fatalities, the cases included are based on the police requests for legal autopsy or drug testing, which may introduce a significant selection bias. General comparisons between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries as well as a discussion of possible future trends are included.

Factors associated with recurrence of alcohol-related traffic violations in southern Brazil

Objective: To analyze variables associated with recurrence of blood alcohol content (BAC)-related traffic violations among drivers in southern Brazil. Method: This cross-sectional study included 12,204 driving-under-the-influence (DUI) offenders according to data provided by the Rio Grande do Sul state Transportation Department. Sociodemographic characteristics, license duration, license category, and psychological assessment results were analyzed. Drivers convicted of DUI more than once in 2009/2010 were considered recidivists. Variables were evaluated using descriptive statistical analysis and Poisson regression, adjusted by sex, age, and education level. Results: A total of 538 (4.41%) drivers were considered recidivists. The following variables showed the strongest associations with recidivism: being aged 41-50 years (prevalence ratio [PR] = 3.41), being licensed for ≥ 12 years (PR = 1.86), being licensed for motorcycles, cars and trucks (PR = 1.36), having a license with psychological restrictions (PR = 1.33), and driving a truck or a similar vehicle at the moment of notification (PR = 1.08). Conclusions: In the age group with the highest risk for recurrence, drivers showed a higher probability of having a diagnosis of alcohol dependence and other psychiatric comorbidities that hinder the control of alcohol use. Psychological assessments seem to be important in predicting repeat offenses, especially when limited aptitudes are suspected, and should therefore be better investigated. .

Differences between attendance in emergency care of male and female victims of traffic accidents in Porto alegre, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil / Diferenças entre homens e mulheres vítimas de acidente de trânsito atendidos em emergências de Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil

Driving under the influence of alcohol/ drugs (DUI) is a well-established risk factor for traffic accidents, and men and women have different consumption patterns. The scope of this paper is to analyze differences in alcohol and drug consumption, as well as on behavior associated with traffic accidents among men and women. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 609 sequential traffic accident victims attended in emergency care from Porto Alegre. Subjects gave a structured interview, were breathalyzed and had a saliva test for alcohol/drug screening. Results showed that women were mainly passengers or pedestrians (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in positive blood alcohol concentration. However, men reported more binge drinking and THC use, while women had more benzodiazepine in their saliva (p<0.05). This is the first Brazilian study to compare alcohol and drug use among men and women who were the victims of traffic accidents. Results point to differences in the pattern of substance abuse, as well on risk behavior. Data may be useful for specific prevention strategies that take gender differences into consideration.

Dirigir sob a influência de álcool/drogas (DUI) contribui para ocorrência de acidentes de trânsito, sendo que homens e mulheres diferem quanto ao seu consumo. Objetivo: Analisar as diferenças no consumo de álcool/drogas e nos comportamentos de risco para dirigir entre homens e mulheres. Método: Estudo transversal, com amostra consecutiva de 609 vítimas de acidentes de trânsito atendidas nas emergências de Porto Alegre. Realizou-se entrevista estruturada, teste de bafômetro e saliva para screening de álcool e drogas. Resultados: As mulheres acidentaram-se principalmente como passageiras e pedestres, (p < 0.001). Não houve diferença na triagem para abuso/dependência ou alcoolemia positiva. Porém, os homens referiram mais "beber pesado" e utilizaram mais THC e cocaína, enquanto as mulheres utilizaram benzodiazepínicos (p < 0.05). Conclusão: Este é o primeiro estudo brasileiro a comparar uso de álcool e drogas entre homens e mulheres vítimas de acidentes de trânsito. Os dados podem ser úteis na elaboração de estratégias específicas de prevenção que considerem as diferenças de gênero. .

A comparison of alcohol and drug use by random motor vehicle drivers in Brazil and Norway.

BACKGROUND: A large proportion of road traffic crashes are related to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. The aim of this study was to compare the use of alcohol, illegal drugs and psychoactive medicinal drugs among random drivers in Brazil and Norway, two countries with the same legal limit for drunk driving, but with marked differences in legislation history, enforcement and penalties for DUI, and to discuss any differences found. METHODS: Roadside surveys were conducted on Fridays and Saturdays between noon and midnight. Samples of oral fluid were collected for analysis of drugs, whereas alcohol was determined by breath testing or by analysis of oral fluid. RESULTS: High participation rates of 94-97% were obtained in both countries. The weighted prevalence of driving with alcohol concentrations in breath or oral fluid equivalent to blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) above 0.2g/L was 2.7% (95% CI 2.2-3.3) in Brazil and 0.2% (95% CI 0.0-0.5) in Norway. Stimulants (amphetamines or cocaine) were found in samples from 1.0% (95% CI 0.7-1.4) of drivers in Brazil and 0.3% (95% CI 0.1-0.7) in Norway. The prevalence of amphetamines was highest among Brazilian truck drivers (3.6%; 95% CI 2.0-6.4). Tetrahydrocannabinol was found in samples from 0.5% (95% CI 0.3-0.8) of drivers in Brazil and 1.0% (95% CI 0.6-1.5) in Norway, whereas benzodiazepines or zopiclone were found in 1.0% (95% CI 0.7-1.4) and 1.7% (95% CI 1.2-2.4) of the samples from Brazil and Norway, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The difference in the prevalence of alcohol may be related to the fact that Norway has implemented steps to reduce drunk driving since 1936, whereas Brazil has attempted to do the same for only a few years. Differences for drugs may be related to different patterns in the use of stimulants, cannabis and medicines.