A bibliometric analysis of inhalant misuse among street-involved children: Trends, patterns, and research gaps

Introduction: Inhalant misuse, particularly glue sniffing, is one of the most harmful yet least studied forms of substance abuse among street-involved children. Despite high prevalence in some low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), research is limited, fragmented, and often embedded within broader substance use studies. This study aimed to map global research trends, identify thematic patterns, and highlight gaps in the literature on inhalant misuse among this population. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using Scopus and Web of Science databases, searched on June 12, 2025 without date restrictions, guided by a Population–Concept–Context framework. Screening and data cleaning were performed by two reviewers. Eligible records were analyzed using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny) to examine publication trends, authorship, journal sources, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic patterns. Results: From 343 records, 161 articles (1989–2025) were included. Publications spanned 94 sources and 532 authors, with 5.55% annual growth and a mean 26.23 citations per document. International co-authorship was 11.8%. The United States contributed most, followed by Canada and Australia. The Journal of Adolescent Health was the top source; Substance Use & Misuse and Children and Youth Services Review also ranked highly. Eight keyword clusters were identified, led by terms including “homelessness adolescents,” “street children,” “HIV,” “substance abuse,” “alcohol,” “substance use,” “homelessness,” and “adolescents.”. Themes centered on abuse, risky behaviors, drug use, depression, and support, while socio-cultural and educational impacts in LMICs were notably sparse. Conclusion: Inhalant misuse among street-involved children is an under-recognized global health and social issue. Strengthening interdisciplinary and geographically inclusive research can guide targeted interventions and policies aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.5 on substance abuse prevention and treatment.