VEdeTTE2 Study Design and Protocol for Heroin Addicts
Author Information
Author(s): Vigna-Taglianti Federica D, Mathis Federica, Diecidue Roberto, Burroni Paola, Iannaccone Antonio, Lampis Fabio, Zuccaro Piergiorgio, Pacifici Roberta, Versino Elisabetta, Davoli Marina, Faggiano Fabrizio
Primary Institution: Piedmont Centre for Drug Addiction Epidemiology, ASL 5 – Grugliasco, Italy
Hypothesis
The VEdeTTE2 study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments on long-term outcomes for heroin addicts.
Conclusion
The pilot phase of the VEdeTTE2 study demonstrated the importance of careful planning and procedures to limit attrition and improve data collection.
Supporting Evidence
- The pilot study traced 88% of patients, indicating effective contact procedures.
- Sensitivity of the biological test for heroin was 78%, while for cocaine it was 42.3%.
- Improvements to study procedures were made based on pilot study findings.
Takeaway
This study is trying to help people who used heroin by checking how well treatments work over a long time.
Methodology
The study involved tracing a sample of 2,200 patients from a previous cohort, conducting interviews, and collecting biological samples for drug testing.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the differences in contact rates between external interviewers and NHS treatment centre personnel.
Limitations
The study may face challenges in tracing patients and ensuring accurate self-reported drug use.
Participant Demographics
{"gender_distribution":{"male":61,"female":39},"education":{"less_than_9_years":70.7,"9_to_13_years":26.8,"more_than_13_years":0},"employment_status":{"steady_job":58.5,"temporary_job":7.3,"unemployed":29.3}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.007
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website