KU researchers present statewide substance-use needs assessment, urge public-health approach

The Center for Public Partnerships and Research at the University of Kansas delivered a statewide needs assessment to the KFA board on April 11, detailing prevalence estimates, service gaps and recommended priorities to strengthen Kansas’ response to substance use disorder (SUD).

The assessment, presented by Janine Heron and Silke von Essenwein of KU-CPPR and introduced by Sunflower staffer Alyssa, documented a widespread need for services across the state and recommended a public-health approach emphasizing coordinated community supports, prevention and sustained recovery services. Janine Heron, associate director at KU-CPPR, said the team reached more than 2,000 people across all 105 Kansas counties and used more than 70 quantitative data sources to produce the report.

Silke von Essenwein, senior researcher at KU-CPPR, summarized key prevalence findings: “about 1 in 5 adults in the state, about 400000 people meet the criteria for substance use disorder.” She said young adults ages 18 to 25 show the highest rates—“nearly 1 in 3” in that age group—and that many who meet clinical criteria do not perceive a need for treatment. The presenters reported that more than 90 percent of people who meet clinical criteria for SUD do not…