TITLE
A. Omar Abubaker: Substance Use Disorders and Addiction - Where We Were, Where We Are, and Where We Need to Go
TALK INFO
Dr. A. Omar Abubaker's upcoming talk is a critical opportunity for surgeons to deepen their understanding of substance use disorders and their implications in clinical practice. His presentation will explore the historical context, current challenges, and future strategies for recognizing, preventing, and managing substance use disorders within the surgical setting. Surgeons will gain essential insights into integrating best practices and emerging trends into their daily routines, enhancing their ability to address these issues proactively and effectively. This session is crucial for surgeons committed to improving patient care and ensuring comprehensive management of substance-related concerns in their practice.
You can watch the first 8 minutes for free.
CLINICAL PATHWAY
Medical Assess and Management
SPEAKER
DATE
27/01/25
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Trace the historical evolution of the understanding and management of substance use disorders, from moral and punitive models to modern biopsychosocial and disease-based frameworks.
Describe current epidemiological trends in substance use disorders, including the impact of the opioid crisis and emerging patterns of polysubstance use.
Explain the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction, including reward pathways, tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.
Recognize risk factors and comorbidities, particularly the interaction between substance use disorders and mental health conditions.
Discuss contemporary treatment approaches, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral therapies, harm reduction strategies, and multidisciplinary care models.
Identify the role of healthcare professionals, especially surgeons and dentists, in prevention, responsible prescribing, early detection, and referral for treatment.
Evaluate gaps in current systems of care and propose strategies for improving access, reducing stigma, and enhancing long-term recovery outcomes.
Outline future directions in addiction medicine, including policy reform, education, integrated care pathways, and research innovations.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr. A. Omar Abubaker, D.M.D, Ph.D., is a distinguished Professor and Chairman of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at VCU School of Dentistry and VCU Medical Center. Renowned for his expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Abubaker is also a leading authority on substance use disorders, particularly in their impact on surgical practice. His groundbreaking research and clinical work address the intersections of addiction and surgical care, focusing on improving patient outcomes and integrating effective management strategies. Dr. Abubaker's contributions to both fields underscore his commitment to advancing both surgical techniques and comprehensive patient care.
CE ACCREDITATION
surgeOn is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. surgeOn designates this activity for 1 credit hour of continuing education credits.
This event may also be accredited by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME®) for a maximum of 1 European CME credits (ECMEC®s). Each medical specialist should claim only those hours of credit that he/she actually spent in the educational activity. If you are a learner based in the U.S. or Canada EACCME credits are recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
DECLARATION
In accordance with criterion 13 of document UEMS 2023.07.rev “EACCME® Criteria for the Accreditation of Live Educational Events (LEEs)” and the Standard v. Commercial or Promotional Conflict of Interest, published by the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP), all surgeON presenters sign a Conflict of Interest form to document all perceived or actual conflicts of interest for the last 3 years, whether due to a financial or other relationship. This document can be viewed at the beginning of the event or on request by emailing info@surgeon-events.org No fee, honorarium or arrangement for re-imbursement of expenses in relation to the this event has been provided to the speaker.
