Patterns of ecstasy use and associated harm: results of a Brazilian online survey.
The aim of this study was to gather information about ecstasy users in Brazil, particularly on issues related to risks associated to the use of the drug, so as to offer a basis to prevention projects. A total of 1,140 Brazilian ecstasy users answered an online questionnaire from August 2004 to February 2005. Participants were predominantly young single heterosexual well-educated males from upper economical classes. A categorical regression with optimal scaling (CATREG) was performed to identify the risks associated with ecstasy use. "Pills taken in life" had a significant correlation with every investigated risk, particularly ecstasy dependence, unsafe sex, and polydrug use. "Gender," "sexual orientation," and "socioeconomic class" were not predictive of risk behavior. The Internet proved to be a useful tool for data collection. Given the recent increase in ecstasy availability in Brazil, a first prevention campaign directed toward the drug is urgent. At least in a preliminary Brazilian intervention, the campaign must be conducted at night leisure places, mainly frequented by youngsters from upper socioeconomic classes. The results do not call for information material with specific targets, such as gender or sexual orientation. The study's limitations have been noted.
de Almeida
Stella Pereira
SP
Department of Experimental Psychology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. stella@usp.br
Garcia-Mijares
Miriam
M
Silva
Maria Teresa Araujo
MT
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001938:Brazil; D005260:Female; D040261:Harm Reduction; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012646:Self Administration; D012737:Sex Factors; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control; D013997:Time Factors; D047568:Unsafe Sex
D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine