Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors for sex offenders. Methods: This is a cross sectional study comparing two groups using a combination of survey methodology and personal interviews. The data was collected over a period of six months from January 2004 until June 2004. All convicted sex offenders in respective prisons who are available until July 2004 was included in the study. A control group of non-sex offenders were chosen from the same prisons. The non-sex offenders were matched to the sex offenders group in term of the length of their sentence. Data was gathered using the self generated questionnaire, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM III-R, SCID and Personality Diagnostic Questionnaires. Results: Religion, education level, history of physical abuse and no history of substance abuse and dependence towards sex offenders. Conclusion: Offenders who only committed sexual offences have some characteristics which differ from other sex offenders who committed non sexual offences as well. Low or no formal education, had history of physical abuse were associated with sex offenders. No history of substance abuse and dependence were associated with no sex offenders.
This is a review of research done in the area of substance abuse in Malaysia. There were 109 articles related to substance abuse found in a search through a database dedicated to indexing all original data relevant to medicine published in Malaysia between the years 2000-2013. Only 39 articles were reviewed, and case series, case report, reviews and reports were excluded. Research reviewed include the epidemiology of substance abuse, genetics, treatment and its relation to health behaviour, and health management. Studies have shown that more males than females use drugs. There was also a high prevalence of blood-bourne virus diseases and sexually transmitted diseases among drug users. Two studies showed some genetic polymorphism (Cyp 3a4 gene and FAAH Pro129Thr) among heroin and amphetamine users respectively that may contribute to drug dependence. Study on pharmacological treatment for substance abuse were limited to methadone and it was shown to improve the quality of life of heroin dependant patients. Alternative treatments such as acupunture and spiritual approach play a role in the management of substance abuse. Data also showed that treatment centres for substance abuse are lacking facilities for screening, assessment and treatment for medical illness related to substance use, e.g. Hepatitis C and tuberculosis. Studies on the effectiveness of current drug rehabilitation centres were inconclusive.