Social Stigma and Perception of Healthcare Seeking Behavior Regarding Opioid Use Disorder in The West Bank
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59994/ajamts.2025.2.34Keywords:
Social Stigma, Healthcare, Opioid, West BankAbstract
The opioid crisis is a significant public health problem worldwide, and OUD is a significant cause of increasing morbidity and mortality. OUD is a chronic relapsing disorder associated with neurobiological, psychiatric, and social complications, including stigma, which can influence help-seeking behaviors and access to evidence-based treatments. In the West Bank, social and healthcare factors may contribute to stigma, which is a significant determinant of healthcare-seeking perceptions. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 403 adult populations from West Bank cities, targeting convenience sampling. Data collection was done using a self-administered online tool that included a questionnaire measuring social stigma perception towards OUD patients and perception of healthcare seeking. Informed consent was sought, and ethical considerations were met. Statistical analysis was carried out. The results emphasize the importance of reducing stigmatization through public education, training healthcare workers to deliver non-discriminatory care, and integrating treatment of OUD into primary healthcare services. Involving civil society and grassroots initiatives has the potential to raise further awareness and provide supportive care. Such steps could lead to better services, inclusiveness, and care for people with OUD in Palestinian society.
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