Multiple adverse outcomes over 30 years following adolescent substance misuse treatment

Abstract

Objective: To compare outcomes over 30 years experienced by individuals who as adolescents entered substance misuse treatment and a general population sample.

Method: All 1992 individuals seen at the only clinic for substance misusing adolescents in Stockholm from 1968 to 1971 were compared to 1992 individuals randomly selected from the Swedish population, matched for sex, age and birthplace. Death, hospitalization for physical illness related to substance misuse, hospitalization for mental illness, substance misuse, criminal convictions and poverty were documented from national registers.

Results: Relative risks of death, physical illness, mental illness, substance misuse, criminal convictions and poverty were significantly elevated in the clinic compared to the general population sample. After adjustment for substance misuse in adulthood, the risks of death, physical and mental illness, criminality and poverty remained elevated.

Conclusion: Adolescents who consult for substance misuse problems are at high risk for multiple adverse outcomes over the subsequent 30 years.