A review of the use of US-derived aetiological fractions in an Australian setting for antenatal problems related to cocaine use

Authors: Riddell, Steven; Shanahan, Marian; Degenhardt, Louisa; Roxburgh, Amanda

Source: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, Volume 32, Number 4, August 2008 , pp. 393-394(2)

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Abstract:

Aetiological fractions are often used as an indirect measure of morbidity and mortality related to a specific risk factor. Aetiological fractions previously used in Australia for cocaine-related antenatal haemorrhage and low birth weight newborns have relied on risk ratios calculated from US-based studies. As outlined in this paper, there are several differences in the use and prevalence of cocaine and its associated harms between the two nations. As such, it is recommended that any use of these aetiological fractions with Australian data should occur with caution.

Keywords: Australia; United States; cocaine; low birth weight

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-6405.2008.00262.x

Affiliations: 1: The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales

Publication date: 2008-08-01