Narrative review on the spectrum of diseases prevalent among substance-addicted populations and their interconnected health dynamics

Abstract

Substance addiction is a complex phenomenon characterized by the dysfunction of the brain's reward system and neuroplasticity, leading individuals to lose control over their behaviour. This review explores the diverse health implications of addiction, including its impact on liver diseases, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory issues, cancers, infectious diseases, gastrointestinal problems, and mental disorders. Heavy alcohol consumption, tobacco use, illicit drug abuse, and prescription drug misuse contribute significantly to these health burdens, affecting various organs and systems in the body. Respiratory issues arise from tobacco smoking, inhalation of illicit drugs, and volatile chemicals, causing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancers, and bronchial asthma. Substance addiction is also linked to various cancers, particularly lung cancer from tobacco, oral cancers from tobacco and alcohol, and oesophageal cancers from alcohol and prescription drugs. Furthermore, addictive substances impair immunity, making individuals more susceptible to infectious diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, especially among injection drug users. The interconnected nature of substance addiction with mental health disorders, genetic factors, environmental influences, and social determinants underscores the need for comprehensive public health strategies. These strategies should encompass education, prevention programs, access to treatment and support services, harm reduction approaches, and destigmatization efforts to address substance addiction comprehensively and improve overall health outcomes for individuals and communities.