Research Hans De Loof

Abstract

In recent times, the use of opioids has escalated drastically and resulted in a crisis of epidemic proportions in North America. In Europe, the use of opioids has also increased, but in smaller proportions compared to North America. However, the extent to which opioids are (mis)used in Europe needs to be further explored. In this project, we will optimise and develop a highthroughput bioanalytical assay based on μSPE-LC-MS/MS capable of measuring a broad range of biomarkers of opioids use in the ng/L range in wastewater. We aim at obtaining near real-time, objective and complementary information on the use of opioids at high spatio-temporal resolution through a wastewater sampling campaign in different locations in Belgium. By generating highly relevant data on the consumption of opioids together with triangulation of this data with other existing datasets (e.g. Farmanet, Health Interview Survey,...), this project can aid in obtaining a better picture on the opioid use in Belgium which is of importance for policy makers in optimizing and evaluating prevention, treatment and harm-reduction strategies on the subject of pain management. Furthermore, by combining multiple datasets, information on the illegal use of opioids can be obtained. In a last step, the obtained data will be correlated with existing socioeconomicco-variates of the investigated communities to obtain a better insight on the relationship between socio-demographic features, and prevalence of use of opioids.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: van Nuijs Alexander
• Co-promoter: Covaci Adrian
• Co-promoter: De Loof Hans
• Fellow: Boogaerts Tim

Research team(s)

• Toxicological Centre

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand IFEB. UA provides IFEB research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Hal Guido
• Co-promoter: Beutels Philippe
• Co-promoter: De Loof Hans
• Co-promoter: De Meyer Guido

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project