Drug policies' sensitivity towards women, pregnancy, and motherhood: a content analysis of national policy and programs from nine countries and their adherence to international guidelines.

Background And Objectives: Substance use in women is associated with unique psycho-social and physical vulnerabilities and poses complex challenges during pregnancy and motherhood. Gender-sensitive drug policy which considers the needs of women and their children could address these concerns. The objectives of this study were: (1) to systematically explore national-level drug policies' sensitivity and responsiveness to women, pregnant women, and children; and (2) to examine the adherence of drug policies with international guidelines for gender sensitivity in drug policy.

Factors associated with problematic substance use before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among a drug addiction recovery cohort: A prospective study in the Netherlands, Belgium, and UK.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and measures have placed various burdens on societies and individuals. Emerging evidence suggests that people in drug addiction recovery were negatively affected. This study investigates whether risk and protective factors associated with return to problematic substance use differed between the periods before and during the pandemic for those in recovery.

Do e-cigarettes attract youths who are otherwise unlikely to use addictive substances? Cross-sectional analyses of Dutch and Flemish secondary school students.

Introduction: E-cigarettes are popular among youth. There are concerns that e-cigarettes attract youth that would otherwise not use addictive substances. While e-cigarettes are thought to be less harmful than tobacco, there is reason for caution.

Language and stigmatization of individuals with mental health problems or substance addiction in the Netherlands: An experimental vignette study.

Persons with mental health problems and/or substance addictions (MHPSA) are stigmatised more than persons with physical conditions. This includes stigmatisation by care professionals. Stigma is considered one of the most important barriers for recovery from these conditions.