The epidemiology of amphetamine type stimulant-related admissions in Albany, Western Australia: 2008-2013

Abstract

Objective: To explore the epidemiology of amphetamine type stimulant (ATS)-related admissions over six years in a regional centre, and to observe changes over time and compare demographics to national trends.

Method: A retrospective audit of patients admitted with an International Classification of Diseases-10 (ICD-10) code relating to ATS use from 2008 to 2013 at Albany Health Campus. Age, gender and reason for admission were compared across each year, including repeat presentations. Concomitant codes during admission were noted.

Results: One hundred and fifty two ATS-related hospital episodes were identified during the study period, 55% male and 45% female, with an age range from 16 to 50. Admission numbers increased over time. Patients with multiple admissions made up 35% of episodes. The most common reasons for admission were harmful use (F15.1) and psychotic disorder (F15.5). Sixty-nine percent of admissions had a concomitant ICD-10 code for mental health, 18% another medical code and 28% another factor influencing health status.

Conclusion: The number of recognised ATS-related presentations is increasing at Albany Health Campus. A broad age range and comparatively high proportion of women were hospitalised. These patients have complex needs and many had multiple ATS-related admissions.

Keywords: amphetamine; epidemiology; regional; rural; stimulant.