[Characteristics and Health and Care Needs of Women With Substance Abuse].

According to a report issued by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, women account for approximately one-quarter of drug users worldwide and, in some countries, the proportion of female drug users has been increasing year-on-year. Female drug addicts have unique life experiences, including distinct patterns of drug use; distinct impacts of drugs on physical, mental, and social aspects; distinct healthcare-seeking behaviors and concerns, and specific challenges during the recovery process. Despite these unique issues, a systematic approach to the unique drug use behaviors and rehabilitation needs of female drug addicts have rarely been incorporated into related policies and treatment models at either the national or international level. This has made it difficult to effectively address the health and care needs of this vulnerable population. Therefore, this paper was developed to integrate the relevant literature to clarify the unique needs and challenges of female drug addicts and provide a reference for developing future care models and policy frameworks.