Exploring patterns of alcohol use and alcohol use disorder among Asian Americans with a finer lens.

BACKGROUND: National survey data suggest Asian Americans (AA) are less likely to consume alcohol and develop AUD than Americans in other groups. However, it is common for AA to be born outside of the US and carry gene variants that alter alcohol metabolism, both of which can lead to lower levels of alcohol involvement. The current study examined differences in alcohol use and AUD between AA and other groups before and after controlling for birth location and gene variants. DESIGN: Past year alcohol measures were examined from adults 18+ (N=22,848) in the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions III before and after controlling for birth location (inside or outside of the US) and gene variants (ALDH2*2 and ADH1B*2/ADH1B*3). Gender gaps in alcohol measures also were assessed. RESULTS: Before adjustments, AA were less likely than White Americans to drink in the previous year (OR=0.50, 95% CI 0.41-0.62), binge (OR=0.68, 95% CI 0.52-0.88), engage in frequent heavy drinking (OR=0.55, 95% CI 0.42-0.73), and reach criteria for AUD (OR=0.71, 95% CI 0.53-0.94). After controlling for birth location and gene variants, AA remained less likely to drink in the past year (OR=0.54, 95% CI 0.41-0.70) but all other differences disappeared. Gender gaps were only observed for AA born outside of the US, highlighting the importance of experience rather than racial category per se. CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that heterogeneity among AA leads to spurious generalizations regarding alcohol use and AUD and challenge the model minority myth.

Strong and weak cross-inheritance of substance use disorders in a nationally representative sample.

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are moderately to highly heritable and are in part cross-transmitted genetically, as observed in twin and family studies. We performed exome-focused genotyping to examine the cross-transmission of four SUDs: alcohol use disorder (AUD, n = 4487); nicotine use disorder (NUD, n = 4394); cannabis use disorder (CUD, n = 954); and nonmedical prescription opioid use disorder (NMPOUD, n = 346) within a large nationally representative sample (n = 36,309), the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (NESARC-III). All diagnoses were based on in-person structured psychiatric interview (AUDADIS-5). SUD cases were compared alone and together to 3959 "super controls" who had neither a SUD nor a psychiatric disorder using an exome-focused array assaying 363,496 SNPs, yielding a representative view of within-disorder and cross-disorder genetic influences on SUDs. The 29 top susceptibility genes for one or more SUDs overlapped highly with genes previously implicated by GWAS of SUD. Polygenic scores (PGS) were computed within the European ancestry (EA) component of the sample (n = 12,505) using summary statistics from each of four clinically distinct SUDs compared to the 3959 "super controls" but then used for two distinctly different purposes: to predict SUD severity (mild, moderate, or severe) and to predict each of the other 3 SUDs. Our findings based on PGS highlight shared and unshared genetic contributions to the pathogenesis of SUDs, confirming the strong cross-inheritance of AUD and NUD as well as the distinctiveness of inheritance of opioid use disorder.

The performance of DSM-5 alcohol use disorder and quantity-frequency of alcohol consumption criteria: An item response theory analysis.

BACKGROUND: Maladaptive patterns of drinking are central to the development of AUD. However, no DSM-5 criteria ask about patterns of alcohol use, such as 5+/4+ binge drinking. It is important to examine whether such an item would improve the diagnostic utility of the DSM-5 instrument. METHOD: Using a large representative sample of the US population, we used item response theory (IRT) methodology to examine the threshold, discrimination, and information value and differential criterion functioning of DSM-5 AUD criteria, along with a 5+/4+ drinking pattern criterion assessed at various levels of frequency. RESULTS: The best fit drinking pattern criterion (defined at 5+/4+ drinking at least once a week in the past year) tapped the milder end of that continuum, which was similar to the criterion of drinking in larger amounts or for longer than intended. The new DSM-5 craving criterion was associated with mid-level values of threshold and discrimination. The AUD criteria with the addition of the 5+/4+ drinking pattern criterion demonstrated invariance across important subgroups of the population. CONCLUSIONS: Among the criteria with the lowest level of threshold, the drinking pattern criterion has demonstrated its utility of the DSM-5 classification by identifying clinically significant but milder AUD cases. Along with its relationship to AUD relapse, the new craving criterion tapped the moderate levels of threshold and discrimination and thus, argues for its continued inclusion in the DSM-5 AUD formulation. Study results showed that DSM-5 AUD criteria and the 5+/4+ drinking pattern criterion formed a unidimensional continuum of AUD severity.

Association between aggressive and non-fatal suicidal behaviors among U.S. high school students.

OBJECTIVE: This study quantified the association between aggressive and non-fatal suicidal behaviors (NFSB) among U.S. high school students and examined whether the association could be explained by substance use, bullying and sexual/dating violence victimization, and other potential risk factors. METHOD: Data were based on self-reports from 14,765 students who responded to the 2017 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Confirmatory latent class analysis (LCA) identified two distinct, dichotomous latent class variables manifested by indicators of past-year NFSB (i.e., ideation, plan, and attempt) and aggressive behavior (i.e., physical fighting in general and on school property). The structural model estimated the odds ratios between NFSB, aggressive behavior, and their potential risk factors. RESULTS: Without adjusting for covariates, the confirmatory LCA estimated an odds ratio (OR) of 2.55 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.93, 3.37) between two latent class variables for violence against self (NFSB) and others (physical fighting). The net association, however, was rendered nonsignificant (OR = 1.08 [95% CI: 0.88, 1.31]) when adjusted for covariates. Significant common risk factors included exposure to physical dating violence, being bullied on school property and/or electronically, being threatened or injured by someone with a weapon on school property, and lifetime illegal drug use and prescription opioid misuse. LIMITATIONS: Cross-sectional data do not allow assessment of causal relationships. CONCLUSIONS: Findings elucidated the association between NFSB and aggressive behavior, with serious implications for prevention and intervention. Targeting substance use, bullying, and sexual and dating violence will protect students from engaging in both types of violent behaviors.

Substance Use and Psychiatric Disorders Among Mexican Americans and Non-Hispanic Whites by Immigration Status.

OBJECTIVE: To compare prevalence rates of alcohol, nicotine, and other drug use and major psychiatric disorders (major depressive disorder, persistent depression, bipolar I disorder, agoraphobia, social and specific phobias, and antisocial, schizotypal, and borderline personality disorders) between US-born and foreign-born Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites and between early entry versus later-entry foreign-born Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites. METHODS: Data were derived from face-to-face interviews in the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (N = 36,309). RESULTS: US-born Mexican Americans and US-born non-Hispanic whites were at greater risk (P < .05) of alcohol, nicotine, and any drug use and their associated disorders and other DSM-5 psychiatric disorders relative to their foreign-born counterparts. US-born non-Hispanic whites were more likely (P < .05) to use substances and develop many psychiatric disorders relative to US-born Mexican Americans. Foreign-born Mexican Americans < 18 years old at immigration were at greater risk of drug use, drug use disorders, and nicotine use disorder compared with foreign-born Mexican Americans ≥ 18 years old at immigration. Foreign-born non-Hispanic whites < 18 years old at immigration were more likely to use substances and to develop many psychiatric disorders relative to foreign-born non-Hispanic whites ≥ 18 years old at immigration. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, the findings of this study support the healthy immigrant hypothesis and adverse role of acculturation for US-born and foreign-born Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites. Further research is warranted on immigration status and age at arrival into the United States and those processes underlying differential exposure to substances and development of psychiatric conditions. An understanding of these processes can be invaluable to clinicians in guiding culturally sensitive and informed prevention and intervention efforts.

Drinking and driving among adults in the United States: Results from the 2012-2013 national epidemiologic survey on alcohol and related conditions-III.

Despite the seriousness of alcohol-impaired driving (A-ID) very few national surveys on reported A-ID have been conducted since the early 2000s. This study examined 12-month prevalences of driver-based A-ID and passenger-based alcohol-related practices in a large representative sample of the U.S. population. Twelve-month prevalences of drinking while driving and driving after drinking too much were 5.7% and 3.9%, respectively. Corresponding prevalences of having an accident while intoxicated and having an accident with an injury while intoxicated were 0.6% and 0.2%, respectively. Twelve-month prevalences of riding as a passenger with a drinking driver and riding as a passenger while drinking were 7.0% and 10.7%, respectively. In general, sociodemographic characteristics of individuals more vulnerable to all of these A-ID practices were similar: men, Whites, Blacks and Native Americans, younger and middle-aged adults, upper socioeconomic status, being never or previously married, and residing in the Midwest. Results of this study underscore the importance of assessing driver-based A-ID and passenger-based alcohol-related practices and the need to target prevention and intervention programs to reduce these practices among those subgroups of the U.S. population most vulnerable to them.

Changes in the prevalence and correlates of cocaine use and cocaine use disorder in the United States, 2001-2002 and 2012-2013.

To present nationally representative data on changes in the prevalences of 12-month cocaine use, cocaine use disorder (CocUD) and 12-month CocUD among 12-month cocaine users between 2001 and 2002 and 2012-2013. Data were derived from the 2001-2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) and the 2012-2013 NESARC-III. Between 2001 and 2002 and 2012-2013, prevalences of 12-month cocaine use and DSM-IV CocUD significantly increased and 12-month CocUD among 12-month users significantly decreased. Increases in risk of cocaine use were seen across nearly all sociodemographic subgroups while increases in CocUD were observed among women, those in the oldest age group, Whites, individuals with the lowest incomes and highest education, and those residing in urban areas. Prevalence of CocUD among users significantly declined overall and among men, individuals aged 30-44 years old, the never-married, respondents with incomes between $20,000 and $34,000, and those residing in the Midwest. Increases in coca cultivation in Colombia in recent years together with increases in the purity of cocaine entering the U.S. portend more significant increases in the rates of cocaine use and CocUD in the U.S. along with increases in cocaine-related morbidity and mortality. The results of this study support the continued monitoring of cocaine use and CocUD in the U.S., especially in view of the narrowing of the gender gap and shifts in race-ethnic, age and socioeconomic differentials seen between 2001 and 2002 and 2012-2013.

Re-examining the relationship between alcohol consumption and coronary heart disease with a new lens.

Moderate alcohol consumption has been related to lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) in the literature. To examine whether alcohol drinking during the past 12 months and heaviest drinking period were differentially associated with the risk of CHD, we designed a case-control study using a population-based health survey of U.S. adults conducted from 2012 to 2013. Respondents who reported to have doctor-ascertained CHD served as cases (n = 1671), and those free of CHD and other alcohol-related health conditions served as controls (n = 17,629) in logistic regressions. Sex-specific quartiles of average daily ethanol intake were ascertained and calculated for the past 12 months and during the period of heaviest lifetime drinking. We further split current drinkers into reducers and non-reducers (past 12 months relative to the heaviest drinking period) to examine CHD risk profiles in association with the 12-month drinking level. Current-drinker reducers (AOR, 95% CI = 1.57 [1.10-2.27] for men; AOR, 95% CI = 1.33 [1.02-1.72] for women) and former drinkers (AOR, 95% CI = 2.06 [1.43-2.97] for men; AOR, 95% CI = 1.51 [1.19-1.92] for women) more often had CHD than lifetime abstainers. Male heavy drinkers during the heaviest drinking period (AOR, 95% CI = 2.25 [1.52-3.32]) were more likely to manifest CHD than lifetime abstainers. In addition, individuals with diagnosed CHD were significantly more likely to have reduced drinking in the past. A change in alcohol consumption over the life course among former and current drinkers may distort the true alcohol-CHD relationship.

Concurrent use of alcohol with other drugs and DSM-5 alcohol use disorder comorbid with other drug use disorders: Sociodemographic characteristics, severity, and psychopathology.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about the sociodemographic profiles, the intensity of drinking, the severity of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and psychopathology among individuals with specific patterns of concurrent alcohol and drug use and AUD and other drug use disorders (DUDs) comorbidity. METHODS: Data were from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. We examined sociodemographic correlates and psychopathology among individuals with specific patterns of concurrent use of alcohol and drug and AUD-DUD comorbidity relative to alcohol use or AUD only, respectively, using multinomial logistic regression. We also examined whether concurrent alcohol and drug use and AUD-DUD comorbidity increased the intensity of drinking and severity of AUD, respectively. RESULTS: The majority (62.0%) of past-year drinkers used only alcohol. The 12-month prevalence of AUD only was 53.5%. Individuals with concurrent use of alcohol and drugs and AUD-DUD comorbidity were more likely to be men, younger, never/previously married, with lower education and income (odds ratios (ORs) ≥ 1.2). Concurrent use of alcohol and drugs and AUD- DUD comorbidity groups were more likely to experience psychopathology than the alcohol use only and AUD only groups, respectively (ORs ≥ 1.3). The intensity of drinking was greater among the concurrent use groups relative to the alcohol use only group, while the severity of AUD was greater among AUD-DUD comorbidity groups relative to the AUD only group. CONCLUSIONS: Research on consequences and treatment outcome of concurrent use of alcohol and drugs and AUD-DUD comorbidity is warranted to inform the development of more effective prevention/intervention programs.

Predictors of treatment utilization and barriers to treatment utilization among individuals with lifetime cannabis use disorder in the United States.

OBJECTIVE: To present information on predictors of treatment utilization and barriers to treatment utilization among individuals with lifetime DSM-5 cannabis use disorder (CUD). METHOD: Face-to-face survey of a representative sample of the adult US general population (n=36,309). RESULTS: Treatment rates for CUD were low in this general population survey (13.7%). Severity of CUD and comorbidity of other lifetime drug use disorders were significant predictors of lifetime treatment utilization for CUD. Preference for self-reliance, minimizing problems, fear of stigma, and financial and structural issues were among the most frequently endorsed reasons for respondents not seeking treatment when they perceived the need for treatment among individuals with lifetime CUD, regardless of whether they eventually utilized treatment at some time in their lives. CONCLUSIONS: Given the rising prevalence of CUD in the US over the past decade and currently low treatment rates for CUD, increased provision for services for CUD appears critically needed, especially those that screen for and treat, when present, other drug use disorders. Programs to reduce stigma and financial barriers are needed, as well as programs to increase awareness among the general public, health care professionals about the nature and seriousness of CUD, and the availability and effectiveness of treatment for this disorder.

Prevalence of 12-Month Alcohol Use, High-Risk Drinking, and DSM-IV Alcohol Use Disorder in the United States, 2001-2002 to 2012-2013: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions.

Importance: Lack of current and comprehensive trend data derived from a uniform, reliable, and valid source on alcohol use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV alcohol use disorder (AUD) represents a major gap in public health information. Objective: To present nationally representative data on changes in the prevalences of 12-month alcohol use, 12-month high-risk drinking, 12-month DSM-IV AUD, 12-month DSM-IV AUD among 12-month alcohol users, and 12-month DSM-IV AUD among 12-month high-risk drinkers between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013. Design, Setting, and Participants: The study data were derived from face-to-face interviews conducted in 2 nationally representative surveys of US adults: the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, with data collected from April 2001 to June 2002, and the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions III, with data collected from April 2012 to June 2013. Data were analyzed in November and December 2016. Main Outcomes and Measures: Twelve-month alcohol use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV AUD. Results: The study sample included 43 093 participants in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions and 36 309 participants in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions III. Between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013, 12-month alcohol use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV AUD increased by 11.2%, 29.9%, and 49.4%, respectively, with alcohol use increasing from 65.4% (95% CI, 64.3%-66.6%) to 72.7% (95% CI, 71.4%-73.9%), high-risk drinking increasing from 9.7% (95% CI, 9.3%-10.2%) to 12.6% (95% CI, 12.0%-13.2%), and DSM-IV AUD increasing from 8.5% (95% CI, 8.0%-8.9%) to 12.7% (95% CI, 12.1%-13.3%). With few exceptions, increases in alcohol use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV AUD between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013 were also statistically significant across sociodemographic subgroups. Increases in all of these outcomes were greatest among women, older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and individuals with lower educational level and family income. Increases were also seen for the total sample and most sociodemographic subgroups for the prevalences of 12-month DSM-IV AUD among 12-month alcohol users from 12.9% (95% CI, 12.3%-17.5%) to 17.5% (95% CI, 16.7%-18.3%) and 12-month DSM-IV AUD among 12-month high-risk drinkers from 46.5% (95% CI, 44.3%-48.7%) to 54.5% (95% CI, 52.7%-56.4%). Conclusions and Relevance: Increases in alcohol use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV AUD in the US population and among subgroups, especially women, older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and the socioeconomically disadvantaged, constitute a public health crisis. Taken together, these findings portend increases in many chronic comorbidities in which alcohol use has a substantial role.

Prevalence, correlates, comorbidity and treatment of electronic nicotine delivery system use in the United States.

INTRODUCTION: This study presents nationally representative data on the prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity and treatment (including pharmacological and nonpharmacological) among electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) users. METHODS: Face-to-face interviews in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. RESULTS: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime ENDS use were 3.8% (SE=0.14) and 5.4% (SE=0.17). Odds of ENDS use were greater among men than women, regardless of timeframe. Rates were lower among Blacks, Hispanics and Asians/Pacific Islanders relative to Whites. Odds of 12-month and lifetime ENDS use was also higher among younger (<65years) than older (≥65years) individuals and higher among individuals with high school education relative to these with some college education. Odds of 12-month and lifetime ENDS use was also higher among individuals with incomes <$70,000.00 compared with those with incomes≥$70,000.00 and higher among the previously married relative to those who were currently married. Associations between 12-month ENDS use and severe nicotine use disorder were strong, whereas associations with other substance use disorders and borderline and antisocial personality disorders were modest (AORs=1.3-2.6). Rates of treatment seeking to cut down or quit tobacco or nicotine use (12-month, 25.0% (SE=1.6); lifetime, 24.4% (SE=1.4)) were low. CONCLUSIONS: ENDS use is substantially comorbid, especially with nicotine use disorder. Virtually all ENDS users smoked cigarettes. Research is needed to understand their role in smoking cessation, adverse effects on bodily systems and their potential for addiction and comorbidity.

The Epidemiology of Antisocial Behavioral Syndromes in Adulthood: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III.

OBJECTIVE: To present current, nationally representative US findings on prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, disability, and treatment of DSM-5 antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) and adulthood antisocial behavioral syndrome without conduct disorder before 15 years of age (AABS). METHOD: Face-to-face interviews were conducted with respondents (N = 36,309) in the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. DSM-5 alcohol, nicotine, and specific drug use disorders and selected mood, anxiety, trauma-related, eating, and personality disorders were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-5. RESULTS: Prevalences of ASPD and AABS were 4.3% and 20.3%, respectively, and were highest among male, white, Native American, younger, and unmarried respondents, those with high school or less education, lower incomes, and Western residence. Both antisocial syndromes were significantly associated with 12-month and lifetime substance use, dysthymia/persistent depressive, bipolar I, posttraumatic stress, and borderline and schizotypal personality disorders (odds ratios [ORs] = 1.2-7.0). ASPD was additionally associated with 12-month agoraphobia and lifetime generalized anxiety disorder (ORs = 1.3-1.6); AABS, with 12-month and lifetime major depressive and 12-month generalized anxiety disorders (ORs = 1.2-1.3). Both were associated with significant disability (P < .001 to .01). Most antisocial survey respondents were untreated. CONCLUSIONS: One in 4 US adults exhibits syndromal antisocial behavior, with similar sociodemographic and psychiatric correlates and disability regardless of whether onset occurred before 15 years of age, illustrating the clinical and public health significance of both ASPD and AABS. In addition to laying groundwork for estimates of social and economic costs, and further etiologic and nosologic research, these findings highlight the urgency of effectively preventing and treating antisocial syndromes, including investigation of whether treatment for comorbidity hastens symptomatic remission and improves quality-of-life outcomes.

Prevalence, sociodemographic correlates and DSM-5 substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders among sexual minorities in the United States.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to present current nationally representative data on the prevalences, sociodemographic correlates and risk of DSM-5 substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders among sexual minorities (SMs) relative to heterosexuals, and among SMs by gender. METHODS: Data were derived from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. RESULTS: In the general noninstitutionalized population, 1.5%, 1.3% and 0.5% of individuals self-identified as gay/lesbian, bisexual and not sure sexual orientations. Men were more likely to report gay/lesbian orientation than women (1.8% vs. 1.2%). Women were more likely than men to report bisexual (1.8% vs. 0.8%) and not sure (0.6% vs. 0.4%) sexual orientations. Sociodemographic characteristics varied across sexual orientation and gender. Relative to heterosexuals, disparities in substance use and psychiatric disorders were found across sexual orientations, especially among bisexual women. Greater rates of specific psychiatric disorders were also demonstrated by women reporting bisexual and not sure orientations relative to lesbian women, with fewer differences in rates of psychopathology among SM men. CONCLUSIONS: Despite growing acceptance of SMs and SM rights over the past decade, substantial mental health disparities exist among these subgroups of the U.S. noninstitutionalized population, especially among bisexual women. More research is needed to understand these mental health disparities, while considering nuances of multiple intersecting minority identities and unique contextual factors. FINDINGS: underscore the importance of advancing future population-based research that includes detailed information on the health and well-being of SMs in the United States.

Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use and DSM-5 Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use Disorder in the United States.

OBJECTIVE: The authors present 12-month and lifetime prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, and treatment of nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) and DSM-5 NMPOU disorder (NMPOUD). METHODS: Data were derived from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (NESARC-III) (N = 36,309). RESULTS: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime NMPOU were 4.1% and 11.3%, exceeding rates in the 2001-2002 NESARC (1.8%, 4.7%). Twelve-month and lifetime rates of DSM-5 NMPOUD were 0.9% and 2.1%. NESARC-III DSM-IV NMPOUD rates (0.8%, 2.9%) were greater than those observed in the 2001-2002 NESARC (0.4% and 1.4%). Rates of NMPOU were greater among men, but no sex differential was observed for NMPOUD. Prevalences of NMPOU and NMPOUD were generally greater among 18- to 64-year-old individuals, whites, and Native Americans, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status. Associations were observed between 12-month and lifetime NMPOU and NMPOUD and other drug use disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and borderline, schizotypal, and antisocial personality disorders; persistent depression and major depressive disorder (for NMPOU); and bipolar I disorder (for NMPOUD). Only 5.5% and 17.7% of individuals with 12-month NMPOU and NMPOUD were ever treated. CONCLUSIONS: NMPOU and NMPOUD have considerably increased over the past decade, are associated with a broad array of risk factors and comorbidities, and largely go untreated in the United States. More information on the determinants, characteristics, and outcomes of NMPOU and NMPOUD is needed to support evidence-based interventions and prevention.

The Epidemiology of DSM-5 Nicotine Use Disorder: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III.

OBJECTIVE: To present nationally representative information on the prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, and treatment of DSM-5 nicotine use disorder (NUD) and the public health burden of US cigarette consumption among adults with NUD and other psychiatric disorders. METHODS: Using data from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (N = 36,309), we conducted weighted cross-tabulations and multivariate logistic regression analyses to estimate prevalences and examine comorbidity of NUD. RESULTS: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime DSM-5 NUD were 20.0% and 27.9%, respectively. Nicotine use disorder was more frequent among men, non-Hispanic whites, younger individuals, the previously married, those with less education and lower incomes, and those residing in rural areas. Adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and additional psychiatric comorbidity, 12-month NUD and lifetime NUD were significantly associated with other substance use and antisocial personality disorders (odds ratios [ORs] = 1.5-5.1, 12-month; 1.5-5.6, lifetime). Twelve-month severe NUD was generally associated with major depressive, bipolar I, bipolar II, panic, generalized anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and schizotypal, borderline, and antisocial personality disorders (ORs = 1.3-2.5). Individuals with current NUD and at least 1 psychiatric disorder comprised 11.1% of US adults but smoked 53.6% of total cigarettes consumed. Treatment was utilized by 20.3% of respondents with 12-month and 18.8% with lifetime NUD. CONCLUSIONS: Findings underscore the need to address nicotine use in clinical settings. Recognition of psychiatrically vulnerable subpopulations may inform etiologic research, prevention, and treatment of NUD.

The epidemiology of DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder in the United States: results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III.

OBJECTIVES: To present current, nationally representative US findings on the past-year and lifetime prevalences, sociodemographic correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, associated disability, and treatment of DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS: Face-to-face interviews with 36,309 adults in the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. PTSD, alcohol and drug use disorders, and selected mood, anxiety, and personality disorders were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-5. RESULTS: Past-year and lifetime prevalences were 4.7 and 6.1 %, higher for female, white, Native American, younger, and previously married respondents, those with

Epidemiology of DSM-5 Drug Use Disorder: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III.

IMPORTANCE: Current information on the prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical profiles of individuals in the general population with DSM-5 drug use disorder (DUD) is limited. Given the present societal and economic context in the United States and the new diagnostic system, up-to-date national information is needed from a single uniform data source. OBJECTIVE: To present nationally representative findings on the prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, disability, and treatment of DSM-5 DUD diagnoses overall and by severity level. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: In-person interviews were conducted with 36,309 adults in the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III, a cross-sectional representative survey of the United States. The household response rate was 72%; person-level response rate, 84%; and overall response rate, 60.1%. Data were collected April 2012 through June 2013 and analyzed from February through March 2015. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Twelve-month and lifetime DUD, based on amphetamine, cannabis, club drug, cocaine, hallucinogen, heroin, nonheroin opioid, sedative/tranquilizer, and/or solvent/inhalant use disorders. RESULTS: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime DUD were 3.9% and 9.9%, respectively. Drug use disorder was generally greater among men, white and Native American individuals, younger and previously or never married adults, those with lower education and income, and those residing in the West. Significant associations were found between 12-month and lifetime DUD and other substance use disorders. Significant associations were also found between any 12-month DUD and major depressive disorder (odds ratio [OR], 1.3; 95% CI, 1.09-1.64), dysthymia (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.09-2.02), bipolar I (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.06-2.05), posttraumatic stress disorder (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.27-2.10), and antisocial (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.11-1.75), borderline (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.41-2.24), and schizotypal (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.18-1.87) personality disorders. Similar associations were found for any lifetime DUD with the exception that lifetime DUD was also associated with generalized anxiety disorder (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.06-1.49), panic disorder (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.06-1.59), and social phobia (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.09-1.64). Twelve-month DUD was associated with significant disability, increasing with DUD severity. Among respondents with 12-month and lifetime DUD, only 13.5% and 24.6% received treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: DSM-5 DUD is a common, highly comorbid, and disabling disorder that largely goes untreated in the United States. These findings indicate the need for additional studies to understand the broad relationships in more detail; estimate present-day economic costs of DUDs; investigate hypotheses regarding etiology, chronicity, and treatment use; and provide information to policy makers about allocation of resources for service delivery and research. Findings also indicate an urgent need to destigmatize DUD and educate the public, clinicians, and policy makers about its treatment to encourage affected individuals to obtain help.

Prevalence of Marijuana Use Disorders in the United States Between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013.

IMPORTANCE: Laws and attitudes toward marijuana in the United States are becoming more permissive but little is known about whether the prevalence rates of marijuana use and marijuana use disorders have changed in the 21st century. OBJECTIVE: To present nationally representative information on the past-year prevalence rates of marijuana use, marijuana use disorder, and marijuana use disorder among marijuana users in the US adult general population and whether this has changed between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Face-to-face interviews conducted in surveys of 2 nationally representative samples of US adults: the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (data collected April 2001-April 2002; N = 43,093) and the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (data collected April 2012-June 2013; N = 36,309). Data were analyzed March through May 2015. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Past-year marijuana use and DSM-IV marijuana use disorder (abuse or dependence). RESULTS: The past-year prevalence of marijuana use was 4.1% (SE, 0.15) in 2001-2002 and 9.5% (SE, 0.27) in 2012-2013, a significant increase (P < .05). Significant increases were also found across demographic subgroups (sex, age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, income, urban/rural, and region). The past-year prevalence of DSM-IV marijuana use disorder was 1.5% (0.08) in 2001-2002 and 2.9% (SE, 0.13) in 2012-2013 (P < .05). With few exceptions, increases in the prevalence of marijuana use disorder between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013 were also statistically significant (P < .05) across demographic subgroups. However, the prevalence of marijuana use disorder among marijuana users decreased significantly from 2001-2002 (35.6%; SE, 1.37) to 2012-2013 (30.6%; SE, 1.04). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The prevalence of marijuana use more than doubled between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013, and there was a large increase in marijuana use disorders during that time. While not all marijuana users experience problems, nearly 3 of 10 marijuana users manifested a marijuana use disorder in 2012-2013. Because the risk for marijuana use disorder did not increase among users, the increase in prevalence of marijuana use disorder is owing to an increase in prevalence of users in the US adult population. Given changing laws and attitudes toward marijuana, a balanced presentation of the likelihood of adverse consequences of marijuana use to policy makers, professionals, and the public is needed.

Gender and nonmedical prescription opioid use and DSM-5 nonmedical prescription opioid use disorder: Results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions - III.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about sex-specific risk for nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) and DSM-5 nonmedical prescription opioid use disorder (NMPOUD). The objective of the present study was to present prevalence, correlates, psychiatric comorbidity, treatment and disability of NMPOU and DSM-5 NMPOUD among men and women. METHODS: Nationally representative sample of the U.S. RESULTS: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime NMPOU were greater among men (4.4%, 13.0%) than women (3.9%, 9.8%), while corresponding rates of DSM-5 NMPOUD did not differ between men (0.9%, 2.2%) and women (0.9%, 1.9%). Regardless of time frame and sex, NMPOU and NMPOUD generally decreased with age and were lower among Blacks, Asians/Pacific Islanders and Hispanics, and respondents with lower socioeconomic status. Among men with NMPOU, rates were lower among respondents in the Northeast and South and among those previously married (lifetime). Across time frames and gender, NMPOU and NMPOUD were generally associated with other substance use disorders, posttraumatic stress and borderline, schizotypal and antisocial personality disorders, but associated with major depressive disorder, persistent depression and bipolar I disorder only among men. Disability increased with NMPOU frequency and NMPOUD severity. Only 7.6% and 8.2% of men and women with NMPOU ever received treatment, while 26.8% and 31.1% ever received treatment for NMPOUD. CONCLUSIONS: NMPOU and NMPOUD are highly disabling, associated with a broad array of sex-specific and shared correlates and comorbidities and largely go untreated in the U.S. Valid assessment tools are needed that include gender as a stratification variable to identify NMPOU and NMPOUD.