MSSU KCU RESEARCH CONSORTIUM BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY (MKRC BMRL)
Project led by Drs. Arnce & Staudinger
Methamphetamine Usage and the Oral Microbiome
Purpose/Study Summary
This study aims to assess health outcomes in patients who are methamphetamine users. We will compile survey data from non-drug users, recovered users, and current users. We hypothesize that rates of chronic medical disease, dental disease, and general barriers to healthcare will be higher among current methamphetamine users. We will also perform cheek swabs from each patient population, with the hypothesis that the levels of IL-6 (a marker of inflammation) will be higher in current methamphetamine users. This study may provide some insight into the health needs of an overlooked population.
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The MKRC created a poster talking about this study, the findings, and highlights the future directions of this project. This poster was a part of the 2023 KCU Research Symposium and can be viewed by clicking the link below.
Participants and Procedure
Participants will be 18 years or older. A convenience sample with Access Family Care Medical and Dental Clinic, Community Clinic of Joplin, and St. Peter's Outreach House will be used to collect a sample size of approximately 75 participants. We have already been given permission for each of the listed locations: Don McBride, CEO Access Family Care; Stephany Brady-White, Community Clinic; Teri Giarratano, St. Peter's Outreach House. Participant vulnerability is considered non-vulnerable as the sample does not fall within the federal definition of vulnerable populations for research considerations.
The study will involve filling out a survey that asks about participant sociodemographic, medical and dental history, diet, and history of alcohol/tobacco/recreational drug use. Participants will be guided through the survey by the researchers. Participants will also be asked to provide a saliva sample/cheek swab in order to determine levels of IL-6, a marker for inflammation. The samples will be run through ELISA, a test that will determine the levels of IL-6 in patient samples. All participants will be given a $5 Walmart gift card for completing the survey and an additional $5 for providing the cheek swab sample.