[Addictive diseases and poverty]. / Návykové nemoci a chudoba.

ABSTRACT

Poverty is one of the risk factors for substance dependence and pathological gambling. Poverty interacts with other, often more important, protective and risk factors. Healthcare facilities should take into account the social situation of their patients; for example they can provide relevant information about social services or mediate social help. Communication with patient's family or community is also beneficial. Patients, as part of their treatment, can be instructed how to handle money and debts. On the other hand charitable organizations should take into account addictive problems of their clients.