A major global initiative to tackle substance abuse was launched virtually at the Creativity + Tech for Health Literacy Conference (CTHL) 2024, where experts from across the world convened to discuss the integration of technology in addressing the substance abuse crisis. Organized by DataGlobal Hub, a leader in data science and artificial intelligence (AI), and Ad-Voke, a non-profit dedicated to improving health literacy and empowering communities through technology, the event highlighted how cutting-edge innovations like AI and virtual reality (VR) are poised to transform the prevention and treatment of substance abuse globally.
Substance abuse is a growing global crisis, with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reporting that over 275 million people worldwide used drugs in 2021, and more than 36 million suffered from drug use disorders. In the United States alone, over 107,000 drug overdose deaths were recorded in 2021, primarily driven by opioids. The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities, while in regions like Europe, Africa, and Asia, rising cases of drug misuse, particularly among young people, are placing immense strain on healthcare systems.
The September 21st, 2024, virtual conference attracted over 100 participants, bringing together thought leaders in healthcare and technology to explore how advancements in AI, VR, and data analytics can offer solutions to this multifaceted global challenge.
In his opening remarks, Mojeed Abisiga, founder of DataGlobal Hub, emphasized the urgent role that AI and data can play in tackling substance abuse. “We are at a pivotal moment where technology, particularly AI and data science, can change how we approach the substance abuse crisis. It’s time to integrate these tools into public health strategies to ensure we make lasting impacts worldwide,” Abisiga said, setting the tone for a day of impactful discussions.
One of the conference highlights was a dynamic panel session, moderated by Oluwafunke Ademola-Aliu, founder of Ad-Voke, where panelists explored the use of technology in substance abuse prevention and recovery. Panelists included Dr. Kanyinsola Olapade, a public health advocate and MD, Samuel Omidiji, a UI/UX designer and AR/VR expert, and Roy Okonkwo, an AI specialist and Technology Consultant.
During the session, Dr. Olapade highlighted the importance of balancing technology with human-centered care. “For technology to be impactful, it must work hand in hand with healthcare providers,” she stated. Dr. Olapade also emphasized the need to make tech solutions accessible to underserved communities, advocating for tech hubs and better broadband access in rural areas. “We must not allow technological advancements to deepen inequalities,” she added, urging governments to support the equitable distribution of digital resources.
Samuel Omidiji followed by discussing how immersive technology could be used to create tools for stress management, a key factor in preventing substance abuse. He stressed that these tools need to be intuitive and culturally adaptable to be effective globally. “We must ensure that mental health tools are accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to individual needs,” Omidiji explained. He pointed to Edspace, a mental health app designed to guide users through stress management, as an example of how technology can positively impact mental health and substance abuse prevention.
Adding to the conversation, Roy Okonkwo explained how AI can detect early signs of substance abuse by monitoring online behavior. He described how AI could analyze social media interactions to flag early indicators of isolation or distress before a person reaches a crisis point. “AI can flag risky behaviors on social media, offering timely support before a problem escalates,” Okonkwo said. He also noted how AI is being used to identify illegal online pharmacies distributing harmful substances, underscoring the importance of privacy in these interventions. “These systems must ensure confidentiality while enabling early intervention,” he emphasized.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Irene Quarshie, a Value-Based Care Manager and Physician, who outlined the global impact of substance abuse and the critical role technology can play in mitigating it. “AI and VR are transformative in managing substance use disorder,” she remarked, citing research from Cedars-Sinai that demonstrated how VR could reduce pain and anxiety in patients, offering a non-opioid alternative that lowers the risk of addiction. “These solutions are essential not just for developed countries but for communities worldwide,” she urged.
The conference concluded with a vibrant Q&A session moderated by Joy Acha, co-founder of Ad-Voke, during which attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the panelists and explore practical applications of technology in addressing substance abuse. Supported by Zummit Africa and EpigeNeuroAI, the event showcased the power of global collaboration and technological innovation in tackling one of the most complex health issues of our time.
As the event drew to a close, participants left with a renewed sense of optimism. The discussions underscored the potential of AI, VR, and other technologies to not only prevent and treat substance abuse but also revolutionize public health responses to this crisis globally.
