Peer ReviewedPublished: 2016Publication: Hawaii Journal of Medicine & Public Health, 75(11), 348–352.

Insights in Public Health: Substance Use in Pregnant Women in Hawai'i: Extending Our Capacity and Compassion

Tricia Wright
Hawaii Journal of Medicine & Public Health, 75(11), 348–352.

Research Summary

This public health article examines substance use during pregnancy in Hawaiʻi and the challenges of providing effective, compassionate care. The authors discuss risks to pregnant patients and infants alongside stigma, fear of disclosure, and barriers to treatment. They call for greater clinical capacity, coordinated services, and approaches that support rather than punish pregnant people seeking help. The article provides a public health perspective rather than new controlled-trial evidence.