Characteristics of Heroin Users in Lomé (Togo)

Abstract

Introduction: Opioid use is a public health problem today. The aim of this study was to describe the socio-demographic characteristics, judicial aspects, addictive behaviours and medical aspects of heroin users placed on methadone (HUM) at the Integrated Addiction Care Centre of Kodjoviakopé (CEPIAK). Framework and Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the CEPIAK in Lomé, Togo, from December 1st, 2020 to January 31, 2021. Results: A total of 200 HUM were included in this study. They were Togolese in 89.0% of cases. Their mean age was 43.4 ± 9.6 years with extremes ranging from 16 to 66 years. Males accounted for 90.5% of the HUM, i.e. a sex ratio of 9.5. Primary education accounted for 39.0% of cases. Single people accounted for 44.0% of cases. One hundred and nineteen HUM (59.5%) had a history of incarceration. Cannabis, tobacco and cocaine were the other drugs associated with heroin use in 79.5%, 74.5% and 59.5% of cases respectively. A history of overdose accounted for 18.0% of the HUM in our sample. Suicide attempts accounted for 19.5% of the HUM. Tuberculosis was detected in 5.5% of the HUM. HIV accounted for 3.0% of the HUM. Conclusion: It is important for the Togolese health system to give more importance to this issue, which is shared by the medical and social sectors, in order to effectively reduce and prevent these social ills.