[Opiate dependent patients in inpatient detoxification. Prevalence of somatic diseases in hospital admissions].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the impression that prevalence rates of diseases in drug addicts undergoing detoxification could be verified empirically. In addition, to make an attempt to identify possible relationships responsible for this development.

METHODS

Between 1989 and 1993, within the framework of a detoxification program, 1041 opiate addicts were investigated for the presence of somatic diseases. For this purpose, the overall sample was divided up into 3 groups corresponding to the following time periods: 1989/1990, 1991/1992, 1993. The baseline data comprised the standardised history at the time of admission, the results of the initial clinical examination, and the serological and clinico-chemical findings during the further course.

CONCLUSIONS

A deterioration in the general state of health associated with more risky drug consumption patterns and social isolation was established. Apparently, low-threshold treatment programs and prophylactic strategies made available to almost two-thirds of the addicts in Hamburg have proved unable to prevent the deterioration of the situation of a subpopulation of addicts.