Attitude of residents and general practitioners toward substance abuse in Iraq

Abstract EN

Substance abuse has become one of the main problems affecting the Iraqi population due to their direct health effects, and because many crimes and terrorist attacks are committed under the influence of drugs.

To evaluate the attitude residents and general practitioners toward substance abuse.

This study conducted in Kerbala health directorate in March and April in 2005 .102 residents and 71 general practitioners was included in the study.

Self reported questionnaire was designed by the researcher contain 19 items was introduced to the study group.

Data was collected and analyzed by chi squares to compare the response of residents and general practitioners.

Both groups evaluate addiction in a moral rather than medical model, the addict is dangerous to the society, no clear and definite factor blamed for addiction, medical treatment can help the patient, using psychotropic without prescription lead to addiction, health education is important factor in prevention.

Prescription drugs (p=0.33) is the most common addictive substance according to the Knowledge of general practitioners while alcohol are the most addictive substance mentioned by residents Medical schools curriculum should be adapted to meet the needs in the field of addiction and refreshing courses for general practitioners to change their attitudes should take priority.