ORCID Profile
0000-0002-3658-9772
Current Organisation
University of Queensland School of Public Health
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Crime policy | Public policy | Policy and administration
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-02-2023
Publisher: E.U. European Publishing
Date: 10-12-2021
DOI: 10.18332/TPC/144006
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 09-02-2022
DOI: 10.1071/PY21055
Abstract: Background Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians have disproportionately high rates of hepatitis C infection. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services play an important role in promoting hepatitis C treatment, but uptake is variable. This study explores the service-level barriers and enablers to hepatitis C screening and treatment among clients of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in South East Queensland. Methods This qualitative study involved yarns with 16 clients and 40 healthcare providers. Thematic analysis was used to identify common barriers and enablers to hepatitis C screening and treatment. Results Common barriers included healthcare providers’ knowledge deficits and inaccurate perceptions of clients’ ability to complete treatment, whereas clients described stigma that resulted in distrust of health care, and experiences of poor relationships and connections with healthcare providers. Enablers included Aboriginal governance of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and the ease of direct-acting antiviral treatment. Conclusions This study’s findings point to the need for healthcare worker training focussing on client autonomy, reduced hepatitis C-related stigma, and consideration of clinicians’ roles in increasing service engagement. Addressing the barriers to hepatitis C treatment through client-focussed service improvement may promote increased hepatitis C screening and treatment among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13182
Abstract: In an attempt to reduce alcohol‐related harm in night‐time entertainment precincts, the Queensland state government (Australia) introduced the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence strategy in July 2016, including restrictions on late‐night service of alcohol and—later—compulsory ID scanners at venues. In this article, we examined the impact of these changes on emergency department (ED) presentations and hospital admissions for alcohol‐related harm. We used data on ED presentations (July 2009–June 2019) and hospital admissions (July 2009–December 2018). Interrupted time series models using seasonal auto‐regressive integrated moving average methods were developed to test the impact of the policy change on presentations for alcohol intoxication, any injury or maxillofacial fractures, and admissions for rates of assault‐related injuries or maxillofacial fractures. Analyses were conducted using state‐wide Queensland data with a sub‐analysis focussing on major Brisbane hospitals. The introduction of 3 am last drinks and mandatory ID scanners had no significant impact on most outcome measures, either across the state or within Brisbane. State‐wide, there was a significant decline in ED injury presentations following the introduction of mandatory ID scanners. The introduction of the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence strategy in Queensland Safe Night Precincts was potentially associated with a small reduction in injury presentations to EDs. The lack of other impacts may relate to the relative lack of specificity in health system data, which challenges in the implementation of the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence policies or other local factors.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-04-2020
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.15066
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 28-08-2018
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2017-053743
Abstract: A significant proportion of people who cycle through prisons express a desire to quit smoking, yet smoking rates in this population are two to four times higher than in the general community. Smoking cessation pharmacotherapy (SCP) is an important component of evidence-based cessation support, yet no studies have examined use of this pharmacotherapy after release from prison. We linked data from a survey of 971 smokers who were within 8 weeks of release from prison in Queensland, Australia, with federal Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) records for the 2 years after release, to identify subsidised use of SCP (varenicline, bupropion and nicotine patches). We used Cox proportional hazards regression to identify independent predictors of SCP use. According to PBS data, 86 participants (8.9%) accessed SCP in the 2 years following release from prison. Participants who were aged 25 years or older (HR 2.51, 95% CI 1.19 to 5.31), employed before prison (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.28), highly nicotine dependent at baseline (HR 2.21, 95% CI 1.23 to 3.97) and using non-psychotropic medications in prison (HR 2.29, 95% CI 1.24 to 4.22) were more likely to use subsidised SCP during follow-up. Despite a very high rate of tobacco use among people cycling through prisons and the very low cost of (subsidised) SCP in Australia, few ex-prisoners obtain pharmaceutical assistance with quitting smoking. Policy attention needs to focus on supporting former prisoners to access SCP, to reduce the high rate of tobacco-related morbidity and mortality in this profoundly marginalised population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGPO.2019.03.018
Abstract: The prevalence of smoking among people entering prisons is high. Despite increasing adoption of prison smoke-free policies, relapse to smoking after release from prison is nearly universal, and policy to effectively mitigate this is largely absent. Informed by a risk environment framework, we aimed to identify key barriers and facilitators to maintaining smoking abstinence among former smokers released from smoke-free prisons. Twenty-one people released from smoke-free prisons in Queensland, Australia, were followed up from a larger survey of 114 former prisoners. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the perceived barriers and facilitators of maintained smoking abstinence. Identified barriers to continued abstinence included pre-release intention to resume smoking normalisation of smoking in home or social environments, resumption of smoking as a symbolic act of freedom and resistance from and to a restrictive environment a perception that smoking provides stress relief to their difficult lives, and the use of tobacco/smoking to cope with cravings experienced on release for illicit substances. A number of interviewees were unable to provide clear reflective reasons for relapse. For those who did manage to remain abstinent for a period of time, identified facilitators included an awareness of the health and financial benefits of smoking abstinence, the use of intrinsic motivation, distraction from nicotine cravings using alternative activities, and social support from family and peers. Interventions promoting continued smoking abstinence among people exiting smoke-free prisons should focus on targeting the perceived in idual- and environmental-level barriers to maintained smoking abstinence while simultaneously promoting perceived facilitators, so as to reduce smoking-related health and economic disparities in this marginalised population.
Publisher: Queensland University of Technology
Date: 20-06-2023
DOI: 10.5204/IJCJSD.2674
Abstract: This study explored stakeholder experiences and attitudes regarding the use of ID scanners in licensed venues in Queensland, Australia. In July 2017, the Queensland Government introduced mandatory, networked ID scanners in licensed venues within designated nightlife districts (SNPs). After 10pm, people seeking to enter late-night licensed venues must provide identification, which is verified by the scanner. The scanner also checks whether the patron has any recorded banning notice/s that may preclude entry into the venue. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 66 key stakeholders and analysed using thematic analysis. Stakeholders reported that ID scanners support the enforcement of patron bans. Their mandated use within SNPs allows for accurate and timely identification of patrons, and may offer benefits with respect to reducing and solving crime, and improving patron behaviours. Some concerns were expressed regarding data privacy and the need to ensure procedural fairness and consistent use. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of ongoing monitoring and refining of ID scanner policy, particularly with respect to where and when scanners are used.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-12-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13225
Abstract: Networked identification (ID) scanner technology is a novel approach to collecting licensed venue attendance data, and potentially reducing alcohol‐related violence by detecting banned patrons. Using ID scanner data from three Queensland entertainment precincts (Safe Night Precincts SNPs), we aim to: (i) examine patterns in patron attendance to licensed venues and (ii) examine patterns in the detection of banned patrons. We conducted descriptive analyses of licensed venue patron entries between 1 October 2017 and 30 June 2019. Scans during high alcohol hours (Friday and Saturday, 20:00–06:00) were stratified by patron sex and key age groups. We described scans associated with a detected banning notice issued by venues, courts or police across all Queensland SNPs and three key SNPs. ID scanner data showed similar attendance trends across SNPs. The peak licensed venue entry hour was 23:00–23:59, with Saturday being the peak day. Approximately two‐thirds of scanned patrons were male, and patrons had a mean age of 25.8 years (SD = 8.80). Scanners detected 48 657 attempted entries by banned patrons, with the majority of attempts made by males (85%) aged 18–24 years (61%). This study adds to the limited evidence on the use of ID scanners in the night‐time economy and highlights the feasibility of ID scanner use in this setting. Results demonstrate the value of scanners to passively collect data on patrons, identify banned patrons and assist in the enforcement of bans.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-10-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00432-019-03037-4
Abstract: Large tumor suppressor (LATS) proteins are putative tumor suppressors and poorly expressed associated with poor outcome in many cancers. A recent immunohistochemistry study showed that LATS protein expression correlated with poor outcome in serous ovarian cancer. We analyzed LATS expression in various ovarian cancer transcriptomic data sets and immunohistochemically assessed LATS protein expression in a Swiss ovarian tumor cohort. Results were compared to clinicopathological characteristics and outcome. We also compared LATS protein expression in serous ovarian cancer cell lines to their EMT status (Western blotting) and drug sensitivity (MTT assay). The analysis of 15 different transcriptomic data sets showed that LATS2 was associated with poorer outcome, while LATS1 was irrelevant (HR = 1.19 and HR = 1.00, respectively). The TCGA-RNASeqV2 data set showed that low LATS1 and LATS2 were associated with better survival in serous ovarian carcinoma. Despite heterogeneity among the different data sets, LATS expression is not an indicator of survival in serous ovarian cancer and LATS2 expression may even be tumorigenic. LATS expression was neither associated with survival nor with the stage and grade in the Swiss cohort. It was low in cystadenoma, intermediate in carcinoma, and high in borderline tumors and was higher in serous than mucinous ovarian carcinoma. LATS protein expression extent was comparable in epithelial-, intermediate-, and mesenchymal-type ovarian cancer cells and was not associated with drug sensitivity. These results are largely incompatible with a tumor-suppressive function of LATS in ovarian cancer, and LATS protein level is also not an indicator for drug sensitivity and EMT status of ovarian cancer cells.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-07-2018
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12848
Abstract: Following the introduction of smoke-free policies in prisons in several countries, there have been anecdotal reports of prisoners creating cigarettes by mixing nicotine patches or lozenges with tea leaves ('teabacco'). Among a s le of people recently released from smoke-free prisons in Queensland, Australia, the aims of this study were to explore the perceived popularity of teabacco use, motivations for its use and describe the process of creating teabacco to identify potential associated health risks. This study used a mixed-methods design. Eighty-two people recently released from prison in Queensland, Australia completed surveys at parole offices measuring teabacco use while incarcerated. Twenty-one teabacco smokers took part in follow-up, qualitative interviews to explore survey responses in greater depth. The majority of survey participants (57%) reported smoking teabacco while incarcerated, with 37% smoking teabacco frequently (> once per week). Teabacco use was primarily motivated by cigarette cravings. Participants described the perceived inevitability of prisoners finding substitutes for tobacco. Multivariate analyses found that self-rated poor physical health, having been incarcerated five or more times, experiencing cigarette cravings while incarcerated, and use of illicit drugs while incarcerated were positively associated with frequent teabacco use in prison. Our findings suggest that teabacco use has become common practice in Queensland's smoke-free prisons. Correctional smoking bans are an important public health initiative but should be complemented with demand and harm reduction measures cognisant of the risk environment.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13181
Abstract: In July 2016, the Queensland government introduced the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence policy, with some amendments over the subsequent 12 months. Key measures included restricting alcohol sales to 3 am in safe night precincts (SNPs), limiting the annual number of extended trading permits (i.e. trading until 5 am) and introducing mandatory networked identification scanners. We examined the policy impact on the number of serious assaults across all combined SNPs and in five major SNPs: Fortitude Valley, Cairns, Surfers Paradise, Toowoomba and Townsville. Using police data (July 2009–June 2019), we examined the impact of the policy on serious assaults during high‐alcohol hours (high‐alcohol hours 8 pm–6 am, Friday and Saturday), employing time series methods. Across all SNPs there was no significant change in the number of serious assaults during overall high‐alcohol hours, but a significant 49% decrease in the monthly number of serious assaults between 3 am and 6 am on Friday/Saturday. A significant decrease in the monthly count of serious assaults during high‐alcohol hours and specifically 3 am–6 am on Friday/Saturday was evident in Fortitude Valley SNP (52%), and during high‐alcohol hours in Toowoomba SNP (43%). Although results were mixed, there was evidence of some promising reductions in alcohol‐related violence in SNPs. It is likely that factors such as extended trading permits (venues not closing at 3 am), continued drinking in some venues and 24‐h trading in casinos have reduced the potential impacts seen elsewhere.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-05-2018
DOI: 10.1093/NTR/NTY088
Abstract: Given the current proliferation of prison smoke-free policies internationally, and the multiple benefits of continued smoking abstinence for correctional populations, improved understanding of factors influencing postrelease smoking abstinence is required to inform support strategies aimed at in iduals exiting smoke-free prisons. We systematically searched health, social science, and criminal justice databases for studies relating to smoking behaviors among people released from smoke-free prisons. Studies were included if: they were published between January 1, 2000 and July 26, 2017 they were published in English the population was people who were incarcerated or formerly incarcerated in prisons with total smoke-free policies and the reported outcomes included measures of: (1) prerelease intention to smoke or remain abstinent from smoking following release, (2) smoking relapse or abstinence following release, or (3) quit attempts following postrelease smoking relapse. Both authors independently screened returned citations to assess eligibility and reviewed studies for methodological quality using the Effective Public Health Practice Project’s Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Fifteen of 121 publications were included. The evidence base in this area is small, almost exclusively US-based, and is mostly methodologically weak. Interventions delivered both pre and postrelease, that strengthen intention to quit, integrate with other substance-use treatment, and facilitate social support for quitting may help maintain postrelease smoking abstinence. There is an urgent need for high-quality research to inform interventions to reduce high smoking relapse rates upon release from smoke-free prisons, to extend the multiple benefits of continued smoking abstinence into the community. Interventions designed to help people remain abstinent from tobacco following release from smoke-free prisons are an important opportunity to improve the health, finances, and well-being of this vulnerable population.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13299
Abstract: On 1 July 2016, stage 1 of the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence (TAFV) policy was introduced in Queensland, Australia and included restricted alcohol service to 03:00 in dedicated entertainment precincts (safe night precincts or SNPs). During stage 2 (from 1 February 2017), the number of extended trading permits (i.e. trading until 05:00) per venue were reduced and during stage 3 (from 1 July 2017), networked identification scanners were mandated for late‐night venues. We aim to examine whether patron drinking behaviours in two key SNPs changed significantly following stages 2 and 3. The study design was repeated cross‐sectional, with three data collection (policy) stages. Patrons street surveys were conducted in Fortitude Valley ( n = 2066) and Cairns ( n = 1021) SNPs between July 2016 and November 2018. Linear or negative binomial regressions were conducted to examine changes in three key outcomes: blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading, proportion of pre‐drinkers and number of pre‐drinks. We found no significant difference in BAC reading, proportion of pre‐drinkers or number of pre‐drinks at stages 2 and 3 of the policy compared to baseline in Fortitude Valley. In Cairns, we found significant reductions in patron BAC at stage 3 of the policy, and female BAC at stages 2 and 3 compared to baseline while the proportion of females pre‐drinking significantly reduced by half in stage 2. Despite evidence of some reductions in alcohol consumption, high levels of intoxication remain, suggesting harm reduction may be more difficult to achieve in these drinkers.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-05-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-020-64110-4
Abstract: Cannabis users who are also tobacco smokers are more likely to exhibit cannabis dependence and psychosocial problems. However, there has been minimal research around various cannabis and tobacco mixing (spliff usage) behaviours and likeliness to smoke the first joint within an hour of waking, known colloquially as wake and bake. The time of first joint and spliff usage may be related as they are associated with the intersection of tobacco and cannabis use. Compared to non-morning cannabis users, morning users reported significantly more cannabis-related problems. Through a survey of US cannabis users, we test the association between various cannabis and spliff use behaviours and likeliness to smoke the first joint within an hour of waking. Compared to those who smoked tobacco and did not use spliffs, the following spliff use behaviour groups were less likely to have their first joint within 60 minutes after waking: those who smoked tobacco and used spliffs (95%CI: 0.605–0.988) those who never smoked tobacco and did not use spliffs (95%CI: 0.489–0.892) those who never smoked tobacco and used spliffs (95%CI:0.022–0.915). We provided possible explanations for our results and suggested further research to better understand findings, important given expanding US cannabis markets.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-04-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13293
Abstract: High rates of tobacco smoking among people who are homeless or living in temporary accommodation exacerbate poor health outcomes and financial disadvantage. There is limited research on this population's perceptions of smoking cessation benefits or support strategies. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of 68 male smokers living in a temporary accommodation hostel in Brisbane, Australia. The survey measured smoking and quit attempt history, perceptions of cessation aids and benefits of cessation, and awareness of the Intensive Quit Support program—a free Queensland government‐funded program comprising 12 weeks of nicotine replacement therapy supplemented with weekly calls from Quitline. Participants (56% aged ≤40 years) spent a high proportion of their income on smoking (median $80/week). Although the most commonly reported perceived benefit of smoking cessation was improved health, more participants were interested in a c aign promoting the financial savings of quitting rather than the health benefits. Twice as many participants reported the high cost of smoking‐provoked thoughts of quitting than graphic health warning labels on cigarette packs (70.6% vs. 30.9%). Participants reported a high level of interest in e‐cigarettes as a cessation aid. There was a low level of awareness but moderate level of interest in the Intensive Quit Support program. Smoking cessation c aigns promoting the financial savings of cessation may be more salient than health‐focused c aigns among relatively young men who smoke and experience homelessness. There is a clear need for innovative, targeted strategies promoting smoking cessation among this population.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-03-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ACER.14583
Abstract: Sobriety checkpoints have strong empirical and theoretical support as an intervention to reduce alcohol‐involved motor vehicle crashes. The purpose of this study was to examine whether checkpoint size (the number of police officers) and checkpoint duration (the amount of time in operation) affect associations between in idual checkpoints and subsequent alcohol‐related crash incidence. Queensland Police Service provided latitude–longitude coordinates and date and time data for all breath tests that occurred in Brisbane, Australia, from January 2012 to June 2018. We applied hierarchical cluster analysis to the latitude–longitude coordinates for breath tests, identifying checkpoints as clusters of ≥25 breath tests conducted by ≥3 breath testing devices over a duration of 3 to 8 hours. Generalized linear autoregressive moving average (GLARMA) models related counts of alcohol‐involved motor vehicle crashes to the number of checkpoints conducted per week, as well as 1 week prior and 2 weeks prior. A total of 3420 alcohol‐related crashes occurred and 2069 checkpoints were conducted in Brisbane over the 6.5‐year (339‐week) study period. On average, checkpoints included a mean of 266.0 breath tests (SD = 216.3), 16.4 devices (SD = 13.7), and were 286.3 minutes in duration (SD = 104.2). Each 10 additional checkpoints were associated with a 12% decrease in crash incidence at a lag of 1 week (IRR = 0.88 95%CI: 0.80, 0.97). We detected no differential associations according to checkpoint size or duration. Sobriety checkpoints are associated with fewer alcohol‐related motor vehicle crashes for around 1 week. Checkpoint size and duration do not appear to affect this relationship.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1159/000528864
Abstract: b i Introduction: /i /b Smoking cessation among hospital inpatients is essential to reduce risk of surgical complications and all-cause mortality. In the Australian state of Queensland, the Smoking Cessation Clinical Pathway (SCCP), a brief intervention tool, has been used by clinical staff in public hospitals to uniformly support patients to quit smoking since 2015. This study aims to assess the effect of the SCCP on long-term smoking cessation rates recorded in subsequent readmissions, and whether the SCCP as an intervention affects inpatients’ interest in nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) during admission and after discharge. b i Methods: /i /b We retrospectively analysed data provided by the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) on patients who self-identified as a current smoker on admission to any ward and were admitted to the PAH between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2019. Smoking cessation rates and patient interest in NRT by SCCP completion were analysed using χ sup /sup tests and a multinomial logistic regression. b i Results: /i /b Of 1,902 included patients, NRT was offered to 1,397 patients (73.4%) and accepted by 332 patients (17.5%). Patients who had completed a SCCP were more likely to be offered NRT than those who had not ( i /i & #x3c 0.0001). Of the 452 patients with multiple readmissions, 100 (22%) ceased smoking at any point in the 2-year study period. At the end of the 2-year study period, 75 (75%) patients remained abstinent and only 25 (25%) relapsed to smoking as per their final smoking status at the end of the 2-year study period. Patients with a completed SCCP were 1.8 times (RRR: 1.825, i /i = 0.030) more likely to quit smoking at any point in the 2-year study period, and twice as likely to have quit at the end of the 2-year study period (RRR: 2.064, i /i = 0.044). b i Discussion: /i /b The SCCP may be effective at increasing smoking cessation rates among hospital inpatients. Future policies promoting long-term smoking cessation should consider implementation of post-discharge follow-up appointments.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-06-2019
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12961
Abstract: Vaping products have been growing in popularity in recent years, including in Australia. Australian laws covering vaping products are complex and vary significantly between jurisdictions. It has been acknowledged that there is public confusion about these laws. This study aims to explore publically-available information about vaping products-related laws disseminated via mainstream media and key stakeholder websites. A content analysis was conducted on 302 news articles identified in the Factiva database, and on 73 key stakeholder websites that provided information about vaping product regulations in Australia between January 2005 and January 2018. Items were coded for the type of regulations discussed, the source of information and the information provided about the legal status of vaping products. Public advice covered regulations around sales, public use, nicotine importation, nicotine's classification as a poison and nicotine possession. In the majority of news articles, journalists did not cite the source of the information pertaining to vaping products laws, making it difficult for the public to judge its accuracy. We identified several inconsistencies in the information being disseminated through both channels. The inconsistent information provided to the public regarding vaping products likely reflects Australia's complex and varying laws governing the sale, use and possession of vaping products with and without nicotine. We recommend that relevant Australian federal, state and territory health agencies provide a clear and consistent message that covers all relevant information pertaining to vaping products and nicotine within respective jurisdictions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S10461-022-03797-0
Abstract: People living with HIV (PLHIV) have high rates of tobacco smoking. Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) may promote tobacco smoking cessation and/or harm reduction. This study aimed to trial the feasibility of NVPs for promoting tobacco smoking cessation among PLHIV. The Tobacco Harm Reduction with Vaporised Nicotine (THRiVe) study was a mixed-methods trial among 29 PLHIV who used tobacco daily. Participants trialled a 12-week intervention of NVPs. This study reports descriptive analyses of quantitative data on tobacco abstinence and associated adverse events. Short-term abstinence (7-day point prevalence i.e., no tobacco use for 7 days) was achieved by 35% of participants at Week 12 and 31% reported short-term abstinence at Week 24. Sustained medium-term abstinence (8 weeks’ abstinence) was achieved by 15% of participants at Week 12 and 31% at Week 24. Most adverse events were mild. NVPs may represent a feasible and potentially effective short-to-medium term tobacco smoking cessation aid and/or harm reduction strategy among PLHIV.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-05-2019
Abstract: This exploratory study aims to model the impact of sex and age on the percentage of pre-drinking in 27 countries, presenting a single model of pre-drinking behaviour for all countries and then comparing the role of sex and age on pre-drinking behaviour between countries. Using data from the Global Drug Survey, the percentages of pre-drinkers were estimated for 27 countries from 64,485 respondents. Bivariate and multivariate multilevel models were used to investigate and compare the percentage of pre-drinking by sex (male and female) and age (16–35 years) between countries. The estimated percentage of pre-drinkers per country ranged from 17.8% (Greece) to 85.6% (Ireland). The influence of sex and age on pre-drinking showed large variation between the 27 countries. With the exception of Canada and Denmark, higher percentages of males engaged in pre-drinking compared to females, at all ages. While we noted a decline in pre-drinking probability among respondents in all countries after 21 years of age, after the age of 30 this probability remained constant in some countries, or even increased in Brazil, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States. Pre-drinking is a worldwide phenomenon, but varies substantially by sex and age between countries. These variations suggest that policy-makers would benefit from increased understanding of the particularities of pre-drinking in their own country to efficiently target harmful pre-drinking behaviours.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.15766
Abstract: Sobriety checkpoints are an effective strategy to reduce alcohol‐impaired driving, motor vehicle crashes, injuries and fatalities. The aim of this study was to identify the geographic extent over which in idual sobriety checkpoints affect alcohol‐impaired driving. Spatial ecological panel analysis using geolocated breath test data from the Queensland Police Service, Australia, for January 2012 to June 2018. Data were aggregated over 338 weeks within 528 Statistical Area level 2 (SA2) units ( n = 178 464 SA2‐weeks) and 84 Statistical Area level 3 (SA3) units ( n = 28 392 SA3‐weeks). SA2 units in Queensland contain a mean population of 8883.5 (SD = 55 018.3) and encompass 468.9 roadway kilometers (SD = 1490.0) SA3 units contain a mean population of 57 201.6 (SD = 29521.6) and encompass 2936.0 roadway kilometers (SD = 7025.0). Independent measures were the density of sobriety checkpoints conducted per 500 roadway kilometers within local and spatially adjacent space–time units. The dependent measure was the rate of tests that detected breath alcohol concentration (a proxy for blood alcohol concentration [BAC]) greater than the legal maximum value of 0.05% for fully licensed drivers in Queensland. Bayesian hierarchical spatial negative binomial models‐related sobriety checkpoints to the rate of breath tests with BAC ≥ 0.05% within and between space–time units. One additional sobriety checkpoint conducted per 500 roadway kilometers was associated with 2.5% reduction in the rate of breath tests with BAC ≥ 0.05% within local SA2 units (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.975 95% credibility interval (CrI): 0.973–0.978), and with 5.5% reduction in the rate of breath tests with BAC ≥ 0.05% within local SA3 units (IRR = 0.945 95%CrI: 0.937–0.953). Associations were attenuated towards null in spatially adjacent units and in temporally lagged units (e.g. SA3‐weeks adjacent lagged 1 week: IRR = 0.969 95%CrI: 0.937–1.003). In idual sobriety checkpoints appear to be associated with reductions in nearby alcohol‐impaired driving. Relationships decay after approximately 1 week and beyond local areas containing approximately 60 000 residents and 3000 kilometers of roadway.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 31-05-2019
DOI: 10.1111/ACER.14109
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1037/LHB0000113
Abstract: Laboratory research shows that eye-closure during memory retrieval improves both the amount and the factual accuracy of memory reports about witnessed events. Based on these findings, we developed the Eye-Closure Interview, and examined its feasibility (in terms of compliance with the instructions) and effectiveness (in terms of the quantity and quality of reported information) in eyewitness interviews conducted by the South African Police Service. Police interviewers from the Facial Identification Unit were randomly assigned to receive Eye-Closure Interview training or no training. We analyzed 95 interviews with witnesses of serious crimes (including robbery, rape, and murder), some of whom were instructed to close their eyes during salient parts of the interview. Witnesses in the control condition rarely spontaneously closed their eyes, but witnesses in the Eye-Closure Interview condition kept their eyes closed during 97% of their descriptions, suggesting that the Eye-Closure Interview would be easy to implement in a field setting. Although witnesses who closed their eyes did not remember more information overall, the information they provided was considered to be of significantly greater forensic relevance (as reflected in 2 independent blind assessments, 1 by a senior police expert and 1 by a senior researcher). Thus, based on the findings from this field study and from previous laboratory research, we conclude that implementation of the Eye-Closure Interview in witness interviews would help police interviewers to elicit more valuable information from witnesses, which could be relevant to the police investigation and/or in court. (PsycINFO Database Record
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 23-12-2020
DOI: 10.1108/IJPH-01-2020-0003
Abstract: This paper aims to determine whether a single session of a motivational interview (MI) reduces smoking relapse amongst people released from smoke-free prisons. This study sought to recruit 824 ex-smokers from 2 smoke-free prisons in the Northern Territory, Australia. Participants were randomised to receive either one session (45–60 min) face-to-face MI intervention 4–6 weeks prior to release or usual care (UC) without smoking advice. The primary outcome was continuous smoking abstinence verified by exhaled carbon monoxide test ( ppm) at three months post-release. Secondary outcomes included seven-day point-prevalence, time to the first cigarette and the daily number of cigarettes smoked after release. From April 2017 to March 2018, a total of 557 participants were randomised to receive the MI ( n = 266) or UC ( n = 291), with 75% and 77% being followed up, respectively. There was no significant between-group difference in continuous abstinence (MI 8.6% vs UC 7.4%, risk ratio = 1.16, 95%CI 0.67∼2.03). Of all participants, 66.9% relapsed on the day of release and 90.2% relapsed within three months. On average, participants in the MI group smoked one less cigarette daily than those in the UC within the three months after release ( p 0.01). A single-session of MI is insufficient to reduce relapse after release from a smoke-free prison. However, prison release remains an appealing time window to build on the public health benefit of smoke-free prisons. Further research is needed to develop both pre- and post-release interventions that provide continuity of care for relapse prevention. This study is the first Australian randomised controlled trial to evaluate a pre-release MI intervention on smoking relapse prevention amongst people released from smoke-free prisons.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-01-2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-12-2022
Abstract: Background: Experiences of unwanted sexual attention (UWSA) are commonplace within nightlife environments. While typically associated with aggression perpetration, literature has suggested that a history of childhood corporal punishment (CCP) may also be related to experiences of victimisation in nightlife environments. The current exploratory study aims to examine the associations between experiences of UWSA victimisation and a history of CCP, trait aggression, and conformity to masculine norms (Playboy and Winning), for males and females separately. Method: Street intercept interviews in the Brisbane inner-city entertainment precincts were used to measure demographic details and participants’ breath alcohol concentration. Online follow-up surveys were used to record participants’ experiences of UWSA on the night of interview, history of CCP, and self-reported rates of trait aggression and conformity to masculine norms. The final s le consisted of 288 females, as there were not sufficient male UWSA experiences for analysis. Results: Approximately 20% of female nightlife patrons experienced some form of UWSA victimisation. Logistic regression analyses identified that after controlling for age and intoxication, a history of CCP, trait aggression and masculine norm conformity were unrelated to experiences of UWSA for female respondents. Conclusions: The current study found that in idual factors were unrelated to experiences of UWSA, indicating that simply being in the nightlife environment, especially as a female, increases the risk of UWSA victimisation. Understanding and exploring social and environmental risk factors, rather than in idual factors, is needed to prevent victimisation in nightlife environments.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2021.109243
Abstract: Digital technologies continue to facilitate drug trading. Televend was an innovative combination of multiple digital technologies, with its backend hosted on the darknet, while purchases were made through the messaging app Telegram. Here, we provide an initial characterisation of this nascent market. Televend and White House Market (WHM) were scraped (Jun-Jul 2021) and a global cross-sectional web survey of 15,513 drug buyers (Global Drug Survey GDS) was conducted (Dec 2020-Mar 2021). Televend was 10% of the size of WHM, the largest drug cryptomarket (4515/44,830 listings per week). Both markets predominantly contained drug-related listings covering similar drug categories, with similar country of origin and destination. Very few GDS drug buyers reported use of Televend (0.73%). Most Televend buyers (68/114) reported buying cannabis, then cocaine (20), MDMA (17), and LSD (12). The Televend and darknet groups had similar demographic and drug use characteristics whereas compared with app purchasers, older age increased the odds of Televend use (aRRR = 1.06, p < .001), identifying as a cisgender woman decreased the odds (aRRR=0.43, p = .004), while last-year use of a greater number of drug types (aRRR = 1.20, p < .001) and less frequent drug use (aRRR=0.998, p = .032) increased the odds of Televend purchase. While smaller, Televend was not noticeably different in its drug offerings to its largest cryptomarket competitor, and it attracted a cohort more similar to darknet than to app drug buyers. Future Televend-like markets may be attractive to people with less specialised technical knowledge who already routinely scroll through social media feeds.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 03-09-2020
DOI: 10.1017/JSC.2020.22
Abstract: Due to the burden of tobacco-related illnesses among hospital inpatients, an evidence-based smoking cessation brief intervention tool was developed for clinicians working in hospitals in Queensland, Australia. The tool, called the Smoking Cessation Clinical Pathway (SCCP), is used by clinicians to support inpatient smoking cessation and manage nicotine withdrawal in hospital. To investigate the impact of completed SCCP on nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) prescribing and use, and to explore clinician involvement in smoking cessation interventions. A retrospective review was conducted to examine data regarding SCCP responses and NRT offering, prescribing and use. The statistical significance of the results was assessed using chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. Patients with a completed SCCP were more likely to be offered NRT ( P 0.0001). NRT prescribing on admission and discharge was higher in patients with a completed SCCP ( P = 0.001 and P = 0.027). Intention to quit had no effect on whether NRT was offered ( P = 0.276) and NRT acceptance was higher for patients that intended to quit smoking ( P 0.0001). The SCCP prompted clinicians to offer NRT to patients, leading to increased NRT prescribing and use. These findings demonstrate the utility of the SCCP to assist clinicians to promote smoking cessation among hospital inpatients.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-02-2020
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13040
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-027307
Abstract: Smoke-free policies have been introduced in prisons internationally. However, high rates of relapse to smoking after release from prison indicate that these policies typically result in short-term smoking cessation only. These high rates of relapse, combined with a lack of investment in relapse prevention, highlight a missed opportunity to improve the health of a population who smoke tobacco at two to six times the rate of the general population. This paper describes the rationale and design of a randomised controlled trial, testing the effectiveness of a caseworker-delivered intervention promoting smoking cessation among former smokers released from smoke-free prisons in Victoria, Australia. The multicomponent, brief intervention consists of behavioural counselling, provision of nicotine spray and referral to Quitline and primary care to promote use of government-subsidised smoking cessation pharmacotherapy. The intervention is embedded in routine service delivery and is administered at three time points: one prerelease and two postrelease from prison. Control group participants will receive usual care. Smoking abstinence will be assessed at 1 and 3 months postrelease, and confirmed with carbon monoxide breath testing. Linkage of participant records to survey and routinely collected administrative data will provide further information on postrelease use of health services and prescribed medication. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Corrections Victoria Research Committee, the Victorian Department of Justice Human Research Ethics Committee, the Department of Human Services External Request Evaluation Committee and the University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee. Results will be submitted to major international health-focused journals. In case of success, findings will assist policymakers to implement urgently needed interventions promoting the maintenance of prison-initiated smoking abstinence after release, to reduce the health disparities experienced by this marginalised population. ACTRN12618000072213 Pre-results.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-11-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13205
Abstract: The illicit manufacture of meth hetamine in clandestine laboratories is associated with significant risks to the community and environment. Currently little is known about clandestine laboratories or the in idual ‘cooks’ who operate them current research directly engaging with cooks is limited to three qualitative studies with small s les ( n 24) of cooks based in the USA. This descriptive brief report starts to address this knowledge gap by exploring characteristics of an international s le of self‐identified meth hetamine cooks. Using data from the 2017 and 2018 Global Drug Surveys, we identified 125 in iduals from 24 countries who reported past manufacture of meth hetamine. We explored respondents' socio‐demographic characteristics and patterns of meth hetamine production using descriptive statistics. The majority of meth hetamine cooks were male (82%) and Caucasian (70%) and, contrary to previous studies, 43% were employed and 51% had at least a high school certificate. Cooks most commonly sourced precursors from pharmacies (50%), followed by friends (24%). Almost half of the cooks (47%) produced meth hetamine exclusively for self‐consumption. The heterogeneous nature of the s le and varying precursor sources reflect the limitations of existing regulations aimed at limiting meth hetamine production. These findings point to the need for innovative and multi‐faceted efforts aimed at reducing and preventing the harms associated with meth hetamine manufacture.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2021-056579
Abstract: Tobacco endgame policies aim to rapidly and permanently reduce smoking to minimal levels. We reviewed evidence syntheses for: (1) endgame policies, (2) evidence gaps, and (3) future research priorities. Guided by JBI scoping review methodology, we searched five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science) for evidence syntheses published in English since 1990 on 12 policies, and Google for publications from key national and international organisations. Reference lists of included publications were hand searched. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts. Inclusion criteria were broad to capture policy impacts (including unintended), feasibility, public and stakeholder acceptability and other aspects of policy implementation. We report the results according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Eight policies have progressed to evidence synthesis stage (49 publications): mandatory very low nicotine content (VLNC) standard (n=26) product standards to substantially reduce consumer appeal or remove the most toxic products from the market (n=1) moving consumers to reduced risk products (n=8) tobacco-free generation (n=4) ending sales (n=2) sinking lid (n=2) tax increases (n=7) and restrictions on tobacco retailers (n=10). Based on published evidence syntheses, the evidence base was most developed for a VLNC standard, with a wide range of evidence synthesised. VLNC cigarettes have attracted the most attention, in terms of synthesised evidence. Additional focus on policies that reduce the availability of tobacco is warranted given these measures are being implemented in some jurisdictions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-10-2023
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13564
Abstract: The objective of this study was to explore key informant attitudes towards the ‘Last Drinks at 3am’ legislation in Safe Night Precincts in Queensland, Australia. Sixty‐six interviews were conducted with a range of stakeholders including licensees, law enforcement and frontline health professionals. Interviews were semi‐structured and analysed using thematic analysis. Key informants responded to questions regarding their experiences of, and opinions about, the last drinks legislation. Key informants reported a range of experiences around the impact of last drinks restrictions, including reduced staffing costs and patron‐related problems within licensed venues. While some venues reported that their businesses lost money, others reported no change in income or that they changed their business model to compensate. Law enforcement and health professionals reported a range of benefits including reduced alcohol‐related anti‐social behaviour, drunkenness and injury. The majority of key informants reported that the last drinks legislation reduced harm, while having minimal detrimental impact on business.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-05-2023
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13686
Abstract: Initial COVID‐19 restrictions forced changes in the contexts (e.g., with who and where) within which in iduals consumed alcohol. We aimed to explore different profiles of drinking contexts during initial COVID‐19 restrictions and their association with alcohol consumption. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to explore subgroups of drinking contexts among 4891 respondents of the Global Drug Survey from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia who reported drinking alcohol in the month prior to data collection (3 May–21 June 2020). Ten binary LCA indicator variables were generated from a survey question about last month alcohol settings. Negative binomial regression was used to explore the association between the latent classes and respondents' total number of drinks consumed in the last 30 days (i.e., alcohol consumption). The LCA found six distinct classes of in iduals who reported drinking in the following contexts: household (36.0%) alone (32.3%) alone and household (17.9%) gatherings and household (9.5%) party (3.2%) and everywhere (1.1%), with the last group associated with the highest probability of increased alcohol consumption during this time. Male respondents and those aged 35 or older were most likely to report increased alcohol consumption. Our findings suggest that drinking contexts, sex and age influenced alcohol consumption during the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic. These findings highlight a need for improved policy targeting risky drinking in home settings. Further research should explore whether COVID‐19‐induced shifts in alcohol use persist as restrictions are lifted.
Publisher: AMPCo
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.5694/MJA17.00847
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 31-01-2023
Abstract: To summarise the research literature on the impacts or perceptions of policies to end tobacco use at a population level (ie, tobacco endgame policies) among people from eight priority population groups (experiencing mental illness, substance use disorders, HIV, homelessness, unemployment or low incomes, who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or intersex (LGBTQI+) or who have experienced incarceration). Guided by JBI Scoping Review Methodology, we searched six databases for original research examining the impacts or perceptions of 12 tobacco endgame policies among eight priority populations published since 2000. We report the results according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Of the 18 included studies, one described perceptions of five endgame policies among people on low incomes in Aotearoa (New Zealand), and 17 focused on the effectiveness or impacts of a very low nicotine content (VLNC) cigarette standard among people experiencing mental illness (n=14), substance use disorders (n=8), low incomes (n=6), unemployment (n=1) or who identify as LGBTQI+ (n=1) in the USA. These studies provide evidence that VLNC cigarettes can reduce tobacco smoking, cigarette cravings, nicotine withdrawal and nicotine dependence among these populations. Most of the tobacco endgame literature related to these priority populations focuses on VLNC cigarettes. Identified research gaps include the effectiveness of endgame policies for reducing smoking, impacts (both expected and unexpected) and policy perceptions among these priority populations.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-09-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0272870
Abstract: People released from prison who experience mental health and substance use problems are at high risk of reincarceration. This study aimed to examine the association between contact with mental health and substance use treatment services, and reincarceration, among adults released from prison. Pre-release survey data from 1,115 adults released from prisons in Queensland, Australia were linked with administrative health and correctional records covering a median of 787 days post-release. We constructed marginal structural Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for pre-release variables and time-varying indicators of emergent mental health and substance use problems, to examine the association between contact with mental health and substance use treatment services, and reincarceration. The adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) for reincarceration associated with mental health service contact was 1.76 (95%CI 1.23,2.51). Among those not on parole following release, the AHR for reincarceration associated with substance use treatment service contact was 3.16 (95%CI 2.09,4.77) we found no evidence for an association among those who were released on parole (AHR = 1.07 95%CI 0.80,1.43). Although we cannot eliminate the possibility of residual confounding, our findings suggest that infrequent or unsustained contact with community-based mental health and substance use treatment services is not protective against reincarceration, and may even be iatrogenic. Increased investment in high-quality and timely behavioural health services for people released from prison may simultaneously improve health outcomes, and reduce reincarceration.
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 12-06-2023
Abstract: Introduction: Research supports the feasibility and acceptance of drug checking among nightlife and festival attendees. Interest in expanding drug checking to other groups of people who use drugs, including vulnerable populations and injectors, has grown. However, understanding the acceptability and feasibility of drug checking among specific cohorts, like anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) consumers, remains a research gap. This study explores AAS consumers' perspectives on drug checking and service preferences, aiding the preparation for drug checking delivery in Queensland, Australia. Methods: A purposive s ling technique was used to recruit 15 AAS consumers (9 males, 6 females Mage = 36.80 years, SD = 6.12) from Australia. One-on-one semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with questions exploring participants' views on drug checking/testing and their preferences for AAS analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted with final themes established through iterative consensus. Results: Consumers expressed frustration with the prevailing stereotypes, social stigma, and the perception of criminality associated with the use of AAS. There was a strong dependence on personal connections and trusted suppliers, with coaches exerting significant influence. Participants expressed concerns about the widespread availability of counterfeit products and underground operations. The act of using unknown AAS was likened to a game of Russian roulette, underscoring the importance of obtaining accurate information and access to reliable testing services. Consumers expressed a preference for a web-based platform that enables in iduals to access their own test results while contributing to a comprehensive database of brand-specific testing outcomes. Discussion: AAS consumers recognise the significance of monitoring their AAS use and seek a service that can not only assist them in making informed decisions regarding AAS usage but also potentially contribute to the knowledge of the wider AAS-consuming community. These findings underscore the importance of tailored education, testing services, and harm reduction measures to address the erse needs of AAS consumers.
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 13-10-2021
Abstract: Background. Digital technologies continue to facilitate drug trading. Televend was an innovative combination of multiple digital technologies, with its backend hosted on the darknet, while purchases were made through the messaging app Telegram. Here, we provide an initial characterisation of this nascent market. Methods. Televend and White House Market (WHM) were scraped (Jun–Jul 2021) and a global cross-sectional web survey of 15,513 drug buyers (Global Drug Survey GDS) was conducted (Dec 2020–Mar 2021). Results. Televend was 10% of the size of WHM, the largest drug cryptomarket (4,515/44,830 listings per week). Both markets predominantly contained drug-related listings covering similar drug categories, with similar country of origin and destination. Very few GDS drug buyers reported use of Televend (0.73%). Most Televend buyers (68/114) reported buying cannabis, then cocaine (20), MDMA (17), and LSD (12). The Televend and darknet groups had similar demographic and drug use characteristics whereas compared with app purchasers, older age increased the odds of Televend use (aRRR=1.06, p& .001), identifying as a cisgender woman decreased the odds (aRRR=0.43, p=.004), while last-year use of a greater number of drug types (aRRR=1.20, p& .001) and less frequent drug use (aRRR=0.998, p=.032) increased the odds of Televend purchase. Conclusions. While smaller, Televend was not noticeably different in its drug offerings to its largest cryptomarket competitor, and it attracted a cohort more similar to darknet than to app drug buyers. Future Televend-like markets may be attractive to people with less specialised technical knowledge who already routinely scroll through social media feeds.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2022.107330
Abstract: The aim of this paper was to explore responses to alcohol health information labels from a cross sectional survey of people who drink alcohol from 29 countries. This paper draws on findings from the Global Drug Survey (GDS) - an annual cross sectional online survey. 75,969 (64.3% male) respondents from 29 countries were included in the study. Respondents were shown seven health information labels (topics were heart disease, liver, cancer, calories, violence, taking two days off and myth of benefits of moderate drinking). They were asked if the information was new, believable, personally relevant, and if it would change their drinking. A multivariate multilevel Bayesian logistic regression model was used to estimate predicted probabilities for newness, believability, relevance and if messages would change drinking behaviour by country and information label. Predicted probabilities showed substantial variability in responses across countries. Respondents from Colombia, Brazil and Mexico were more likely to consider drinking less as well as have lower levels of previous awareness. Those from Denmark and Switzerland were not as likely to say the labels would make them consider drinking less. The cancer message was consistently the newest and most likely to make people consider drinking less across countries. Country differences in responses to messages can be used to create targeted harm reduction measures as well as inform what should be on labels. The provision of such health information on alcohol product labels may play a role in raising awareness of the risk of drinking. Global comparisons of responses to alcohol health information labels: a cross sectional study of people who drink alcohol from 29 countries.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13274
Abstract: The Queensland Government's Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence (TAFV) Policy was met with concern from live music venue owners who feared decreased patronage and associated revenue. This study investigates the impact of the TAFV Policy on live music venues and performances in Fortitude Valley, an inner‐city suburb of Brisbane, Australia recognised as a hub of live music performances. Data relating to live music venues and performances in Fortitude Valley for the 2000–2018 financial years were obtained from the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA AMCOS), who maintains an online data portal allowing artists to enter performance details to collect royalty payments. These data were supplemented with six precinct mapping audits of live music venues operating in the Fortitude Valley Safe Night Precinct between July 2016 and September 2019. APRA AMCOS data show increases in the number of reported live music performances and venues in Fortitude Valley between 2000 and 2019. Precinct mapping audits show minimal changes in the operation of live music venues in Fortitude Valley between 2016 and 2019. As the first study to independently document the impact of licenced venue trading hour changes on live music, this study shows the number of live performances reported to APRA AMCOS and original live music venues trading in the Fortitude Valley Safe Night Precinct were unchanged by the introduction of the TAFV. The study highlights the value of using performance returns and venue audits to track live music in a contested policy space.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13272
Abstract: This closing commentary to the special section presents an overview of the Queensland Alcohol‐related violence and Night‐Time Economy Monitoring evaluation findings in comparison to those from other jurisdictions where similar interventions have been implemented (such as Sydney and Newcastle), and especially with previous studies that have used similar evaluation methodologies, such as the Dealing with Alcohol and the Night‐Time Economy study. Overall, the articles documented promising reductions in alcohol‐related harm, building on the existing evidence base for multi‐pronged interventions in entertainment districts. Importantly, this is the first comprehensive investigation to also look at impacts on nightlife‐related business and findings demonstrated, that there were improvements for many businesses. There are substantial policy implications for Queensland and other jurisdictions (nationally and globally) wanting to reduce late night alcohol‐related harm in entertainment districts.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-08-2019
DOI: 10.1002/DTA.2471
Abstract: Following the implementation of prison smoke-free policies, there have been reports of prisoners creating substitute cigarettes made from nicotine replacement therapy patches or lozenges infused with tea leaves ("teabacco"). No studies have analyzed the chemical constituents of teabacco made from nicotine lozenges, so as to document any potential related health hazards. Teabacco s les were made by a participant who reported creating teabacco while incarcerated in a smoke-free prison in Queensland, Australia, and the process was video-recorded for replication in a laboratory. A simple linear smoking system captured the teabacco smoke for analysis. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) was used to analyze elemental composition and gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (GC-MS) analyzed the captured smoke using the National Institute of Standards and Technology mass spectral library. Analyses determined that quantities of copper, aluminum, and lead concentrations, and levels of inhaled total particulate matter, were above recommended guidelines for safe ingestion. Analysis of teabacco smoke using GC-MS identified potentially toxic compounds catechol and nicotine. However, our findings show that smoking this form of teabacco is less harmful than smoking teabacco made from nicotine patches, or smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes. Considering the limited potential health harm of smoking teabacco made from lozenges, and that nicotine lozenges represent the only form of smoking cessation support for in iduals entering smoke-free prisons, we caution against the removal of nicotine lozenges from Queensland's prisons, at least until further research directly establishes health harms associated with this form of teabacco.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2018.02.028
Abstract: Smoke-free prison policies are increasingly common, but few studies have investigated relapse to smoking after release from prison. This study investigated return to tobacco smoking and correlates of smoking at reduced levels after release among adults recently released from smoke-free prisons in Queensland, Australia. A cross-sectional survey of 114 people at parole offices within two months of release from prison was used. The survey measured health, social, and criminological factors related to tobacco smoking. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with reduced post-release smoking levels compared to pre-incarceration levels. 94% of participants relapsed to smoking within two months of release 72% relapsed on the day of release. 62% of participants smoked significantly less per day after compared with before incarceration. Living with a partner (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.77, 95%CI 1.02-7.52), expressing support for smoke-free prison policies (OR 2.44, 95%CI 1.12-5.32), intending to remain abstinent post-release (OR 4.29, 95%CI 1.88-9.82), and intending to quit in the future (OR 3.88, 95%CI 1.66-9.07) were associated with reduced smoking post-release. Use of illicit drugs post-release was negatively associated with reduced smoking post-release (OR 0.27, 95%CI 0.09-0.79). In multivariate analyses, pre-release intention to remain smoke-free was associated with reduced smoking post-release (AOR 2.69, 95%CI 1.01-7.14). Relapse to smoking after release from smoke-free prisons is common, but many who relapse smoke less than before incarceration, suggesting that smoke-free prison policies may reduce post-release tobacco smoking. There is a need for tailored, evidence-based tobacco cessation interventions for people recently released from prison.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13270
Abstract: This commentary introduces the special section on the outcomes of the Queensland Alcohol‐related violence and Night‐time Economy Monitoring project and outlines the political and policy context of the interventions put in place under the Queensland government's Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence strategy. The development of the strategy was informed by alcohol policy initiatives trialled in other major Australian cities over the past two decades. The articles in this special section examine the impact of the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence policy stages on alcohol‐related harms and local economies across selected entertainment precincts (Safe Night Precincts). A rich array of data were utilised, including administrative health and justice data, data reflective of nightlife trading (i.e. foot traffic data, ID scanner data and live music performances) and street surveys. Findings have implications for research, policy and practice and demonstrate the need for comprehensive evaluations that can accommodate the complexities of modern alcohol policy in Australia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13271
Abstract: Key elements of the Queensland Government's Tackling Alcohol Fuelled Violence (TAFV) policy included the introduction of mandatory identification (ID) scanners and reduced trading hours for licensed venues located within Safe Night Precincts (SNP). These measures raised concerns among licensed venue owners and other key stakeholders regarding the potential negative impact of the policy on business trade and nightlife. Using multiple data sources, this paper examines the impact of the TAFV policy on nightlife and trade in three Queensland SNPs: Fortitude Valley, Surfers Paradise and Cairns. Data from ID scanners (2017–2019), foot traffic counters (2017–2019) and counts of liquor licences issued (2015–2019) were used to measure the policy's impact on the number of patrons and licensed venues within SNPs. Joinpoint regression and auto‐regressive integrated moving average models were developed to examine changes in these measures over time. No significant changes were observed in the number of ID scans over time, although Surfers Paradise showed a 0.13% reduction during high alcohol hours. Foot traffic counts from Fortitude Valley showed no significant impact of the policy on the number of patrons in the area during high‐alcohol hours. The number of commercial hotel licenses increased in all three regions, and commercial other‐bar licenses increased in all regions except Surfers Paradise SNP where numbers remained stable. Patterns in trading and the number of patrons within SNPs were mostly stable or increasing following the implementation of the TAFV policy beyond normal fluctuations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1002/JPPR.1781
Abstract: This review summarises the available evidence on mental illnesses as a potential risk factor for non‐medical use of prescription opioids (NUPO) and discusses how these findings may be applicable to clinicians in the Australian healthcare setting. A literature search of PubMed and Embase was conducted in November 2019 to identify articles on NUPO and mental illnesses articles were considered relevant if they examined associations between NUPO and mental illnesses. A narrative synthesis was used to summarise the findings. The evidence synthesised from this review shows that mental illness may be a risk factor for NUPO. Although there is limited literature in Australia, strong associations between mental illness and NUPO were identified among various study cohorts, including people receiving treatment for risky substance use, chronic pain patients and community‐based s les. Pharmacists can be involved in potential strategies to reduce NUPO‐related harm, particularly for in iduals who are more likely to engage in NUPO. Understanding potential risk factors for NUPO, such as the diagnosis of a mental illness, may inform safer and more effective opioid dispensing and prescribing by clinicians.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-07-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-020-67809-6
Abstract: An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.13308
Abstract: In July 2016, the Queensland Government introduced the Tackling Alcohol‐Fuelled Violence (TAFV) policy to address alcohol‐related harm in entertainment precincts [safe night precincts (SNP)]. Additional measures were introduced in February and July 2017. We aim to examine the impact of the policy on Queensland Ambulance Service call‐outs in Fortitude Valley, Surfers Paradise, all 15 SNP suburbs combined and statewide. Auto‐regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models and seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) models were developed to test the impact of TAFV policy stages on monthly number of ambulance call‐outs during high alcohol hours (HAH Friday and Saturday nights, 20:00–05:59) over an 8‐year period (July 2011–June 2019). The average number of monthly call‐outs in HAH reduced by 26.2% in Fortitude Valley, 21.1% in Surfers Paradise and 4.3% in all 15 SNP suburbs combined. In Fortitude Valley, there was a significant decline in the monthly number of call‐outs between 00:00 and 02:59 and across all HAH combined when examining the cumulative effect of the policy stages and significant declines between 03:00 and 05:59 after each stage and cumulatively. Across the 15 SNP suburbs combined, there was a significant decline in call‐outs between 03:00 and 05:59 after the third policy stage (July 2017). There were no significant declines in Surfers Paradise or statewide. Overall, the introduction of the TAFV policy stages in Queensland had a limited effect on ambulance call‐outs during HAH. However, there were some notable declines in HAH ambulance call‐outs in some of the state's key nightlife suburbs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2023
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-09-2022
DOI: 10.1177/10901981211034738
Abstract: There are high rates of tobacco smoking among people who experience mental illness (MI). While videos are an effective method of disseminating health-related information, there is limited research investigating the effectiveness of video-delivered education promoting smoking cessation among people living with MI. This formative study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and acceptability of targeted video resources providing smoking cessation information and advice to smokers with MI. This study used a mixed-method design 29 Australian smokers living with MI completed a preinterview survey including 12 questions assessing knowledge about smoking cessation, watched six videos developed by the research team providing information about smoking cessation, took part in semistructured interviews about the videos’ quality, content, and format, and then completed a postinterview survey identical to the preinterview survey to assess changes in smoking cessation-related knowledge. A Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to calculate changes in cessation-related knowledge, and thematic analysis was used to identify common themes in qualitative data. We found a statistically significant increase in participants’ smoking cessation-related knowledge scores after watching the videos. Participants indicated an overall high level of acceptability of the videos’ quality, content, and format, and findings from the semistructured interviews reflected these favorable views. This study’s findings provide a new understanding of the effectiveness and acceptability of customized video-based education to promote smoking cessation among people living with MI, and can be used to inform the content and focus of video resources aimed at increasing knowledge about smoking cessation for people experiencing MI.
Start Date: 01-2023
End Date: 01-2026
Amount: $458,039.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity