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    Maryland Department of Health
    Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB)

    MCH HOTLINE
    1-800-456-8900

    ​Definition

    What is substance abuse?

    • According to the DSM IV, substance abuse is defined as a maladaptive pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress as manifested by:
           Failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, home1        
           Recurrent use in situations in which is it physically hazardous1   
           Recurrent use related legal problems1     
           Use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the substance1      

     

    Why is substance abuse in women important?

    • Women make up 30% of the addicted population in The United States
    • Women who use substances are less likely to receive adequate healthcare or prenatal care2, 3
    • Estimates of substance use in women are likely underestimated secondary to fear of prosecution or perception of social stigma4
     
    Resources
    1. American Psychiatric Association (2000).  Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Edition.  Retrieved November 1, 2010 from University of Maryland Baltimore Library website: https://www.hshsl.umaryland.edu/​
    2. Haves, J.R. et al (2009).  Factors associated with substance use during pregnancy: Results from a national sample. Drug and Alcohol Dependence 99. 89-95. 
    3. Wendell, A.D (2013). Overview and epidemiology of substance abuse in pregnancy. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology 56. 91-96.
    4. Van Gelder, M. et al (2010).  Characteristics of Pregnant Illicit Drug Users and Associations between Cannabis and Perinatal Outcome in a Population Based Study [Electronic Version].  Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 109, 243-247. 
     

    Return to Women's Health

    Return to Substance Use and Abuse

     
    January, 2014
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