Substance Abuse (SBA)

Section Information

Substance Abuse focuses on the causes, mechanisms, prevention, and treatment of substance use disorders involving alcohol, tobacco, prescription medications, and illicit drugs. The field integrates psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, public health, and social sciences to address the biological, behavioral, and societal aspects of addiction.

Current research includes neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, behavioral risk factors, prevention strategies, pharmacological and psychosocial treatments, and policy interventions. Advances in brain imaging, genetic studies, digital health tools, and community-based programs are improving understanding and management of substance-related disorders.

This section publishes clinical studies, epidemiological research, intervention trials, policy analyses, and review articles related to substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Scope

Neurobiology of Addiction

• Brain reward and reinforcement pathways
• Neurotransmitter systems in substance use
• Genetic and epigenetic influences
• Neuroadaptation and dependence mechanisms

Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis

• Screening and diagnostic criteria
• Comorbid mental health conditions
• Risk factors and vulnerability assessment
• Severity and relapse prediction models

Treatment and Rehabilitation

• Medication-assisted treatment
• Behavioral and cognitive therapies
• Residential and community-based programs
• Relapse prevention strategies

Prevention and Public Health Approaches

• School and community prevention programs
• Early intervention strategies
• Harm reduction initiatives
• Substance use surveillance systems

Policy and Social Impact

• Drug policy and regulation
• Socioeconomic determinants of substance use
• Stigma and social reintegration
• Criminal justice and treatment diversion programs

Special Populations

• Adolescent substance use
• Substance use in pregnancy
• Older adults and prescription misuse
• Vulnerable and marginalized communities

Emerging Trends and Technologies

• Digital health interventions
• Telehealth treatment models
• Novel psychoactive substances
• Data-driven prevention strategies

Editorial Board

Click here to see the Section Editorial Board of “Substance Abuse (SBA)”.

Papers Published

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