The prevalence and pattern of substance use among medical undergraduates in Baghdad University : a preliminary report

Abstract EN

Background: Substance misuse can involve excessive and continuous consumption of psychoactive substances without medical supervision leading to dependence and adverse health consequences.

It is an escalating public health problem that is under researched in Iraq.

The current work examines the prevalence, pattern, reasons, and adverse effects of substance use among medical undergraduates attending the College of Medicine in Baghdad.

Methods: In July 2019, 256 students completed an online survey anonymously through the college's website.

The survey included socio-demographic data, type of substances used, consumption patterns, reason for use, and adverse effects.

The study was a research project associated with the community medicine and continuous medical education departments.

Results: From the 12 substances listed, half of the participants met the diagnostic criteria for substance misuse, mainly for caffeine (30.5%) and tobacco (12.5%) followed by Over the Counter (OTC) medicines (12.1%), benzodiazepines (5.8%), steroids (4.6%), and alcohol (4.2%).

Tramadol was the most used illicit drug (1.9%).

Peer influence and the decision not to quit were the expected patterns of use with common triggers being life stress (13.7%) and anxiety (12.5%).

Conclusion: The prevalence of substance use among medical students in Baghdad is high, particularly given Iraq’s religious and social precautions and their medical knowledge compared with previous local studies.

The stress of studying, anxiety, and unstable living conditions within the city were common predisposing factors.

The laxity of legislation concerning drug availability is contributing to widespread substance use in Iraq.

Health authorities should actively implement intervention and treatment programs.