Stigmatized attitudes of medical staff toward people who use drugs and their determinants in Japanese medical facilities specialized in addiction treatment

Abstract

Aim: Stigma within healthcare settings significantly impact the lives of people who use drugs (PWUD). Given the lack of quantitative data on stigma toward PWUD in healthcare settings and the unknown factors that contribute to it in the Japanese context, this study aimed to investigate the current status of stigma toward PWUD and its determinants.

Methods: We conducted a survey in five specialized addiction medical facilities across three prefectures in Japan. The survey included questions related to stigmatizing attitudes toward PWUD, knowledge about illicit drug use, and personal and professional interactions with PWUD.

Results: A substantial portion of respondents rejected the notion that drug addiction can be overcome through sheer willpower or attributed it solely to moral failings. However, the majority still considered them untrustworthy and viewing drug use as unacceptable and incomprehensible. Many respondents perceived PWUD as dangerous, despite the limited occurrence of hostile behavior from PWUD in clinical practice. A considerable proportion of respondents did not seek support for their own or their relatives' drug-related issues, and less than half had collaborated with recovered PWUD, which serves as potential indicators of reduced stigma. While healthcare professionals recognized that involving law enforcement does not contribute to the recovery of PWUD, a considerable number still believed it was necessary to report them to the authorities.

Conclusion: Healthcare professionals in specialized addiction medical facilities demonstrate strong stigmatizing attitudes toward PWUD. Comprehensive educational programs and large-scale awareness campaigns are necessary to address and mitigate stigma in this context.

Keywords: Japan; illicit drug; intersectional collaboration; medical staff; social stigma.