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Workplace Substance Abuse Advisor: BU detoxed alcoholics study applicable to workplace safety

A Boston University study of alcoholics who went through detoxification, which suggests they are more prone than detoxed drug users to injuries (see "Research Briefs," February 15), is "very applicable to the workplace environment," says Jeffrey Samet, an associate professor of medicine at the Schools of Medicine and Public Health and one of the study's investigators, in the March 7 Workplace Substance Abuse Advisor. The study found that 29 percent of those who were alcohol-dependent suffered an injury after detox (gunshot or stab wound, fractures or dislocations of bones or joints, accidents or falls requiring medical attention, head injuries, or an injury stemming from a motor vehicle accident), compared to 28 percent of detoxed patients who were both alcohol- and drug-dependent and 16 percent of detoxed drug users. "As with most other things in life, these numbers can be looked at in a couple of different ways," says Samet. "Now, it would be quite natural for an employer to look at the data from the perspective of what it's going to cost them. Obviously, injuries have a cost associated with them. But I think it's more important that this be seen as information an employer can use to help recovering employees do the best job they can -- while minimizing their risk of injury."

Boston Herald: Hancock pledges $20 million to BU's Student Village

John Hancock has pledged $20 million over 10 years for BU's $200 million plan to build a 6,000-seat arena and athletic complex adjacent to the Commonwealth Armory, says the March 6 Boston Herald. Besides BU's sporting events, the arena will serve as a venue for outside athletic events as well as midsize entertainment shows. David D'Alessandro, Hancock's chairman and CEO and a member of the University's Board of Trustees, says, "I just happen to think what they're [Boston University] doing makes sense. I've been very impressed with the fact that BU has been willing to use [the facilities] for the community and for a lot more things [than University events]."

New England Journal of Medicine: Birth defects, low weight in test-tube babies

An Australian study has found that one in 10 test-tube babies has major birth defects, while a U.S. study found they are twice as likely to be born with low birth weight, according to the March 7 New England Journal of Medicine. "For couples who are currently concerned about fertility, the messages seem clear," writes Allen Mitchell, an SPH professor and director of the Slone Epidemiology Unit, in an editorial in the Journal. "For those in whom pregnancy could not otherwise occur, assisted reproductive technology offers great hope, with risks of adverse outcomes that many would consider acceptable. However, the risks demonstrated . . . may not be acceptable for all couples and must be considered as assisted reproductive technology is increasingly marketed to health-care providers and the public."

Boston Herald: Law schools thrive in uncertain times

The March 5 Boston Herald reports that area law schools are seeing increased enrollment, with classrooms providing temporary shelters for job seekers. Applications to BU's School of Law are up 40 percent from last year. Northeastern University's School of Law also reports a 40 percent increase in applicants. Harvard Law reports that applications are up 19 percent, and Boston's New England School of Law applicants are up 20 percent.

15 March 2002
Boston University
Office of University Relations