Differences in factors associated with first treatment entry and treatment re-entry among cocaine users

Aims To investigate factors associated with first entry to treatment and with treatment re-entry among cocaine users. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting, participants Cocaine users (n = 313) recruited from community and treatment settings in Brazil. Measurements Structured questionnaire including selected items from the addiction severity index (ASI), general health questionnaire, version 28 (GHQ-28), CAGE and the severity of dependence scale (SDS). Findings Higher dose use, being a problematic drinker and increased awareness of their problem were associated with increased odds of making first contact with an agency. Greater severity of dependence, being involved in acquisitive crime and social support increased the chance of treatment re-entry. Being involved in acquisitive crimes and concerns about confidentiality were associated with decreased odds of first treatment contact. Being a problematic drinker was associated with decreased odds of re-entry treatment. Conclusions These findings suggest that the distinction between first treatment contact and subsequent entry to treatment is useful, clinically relevant and deserving of further investigation.