Knowledge and attitude of substance abuse among youths in Tikrit-Iraq
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Abstract
Background: The data of substance abuse are limited in Iraq, psychiatrists perceived non-medical use of prescription drugs including benzhexol (muscle relaxant), benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety medication) and codeine (opiate painkiller), as the most common form of illicit substance use .
Aim of the study: This study is designed to assess the substance abuse related knowledge and attitude among youth in Tikrit
Results: Results showed (78%) don’t know any substance abusers while (22%) know at least one substance abuser. Also (52.7%) of female and (57.4%) of male could not define substance abuse correctly.
Avoiding friends who are substance abusers can help in prevention of substance abuse was the most agreed preventing factor among male (82.5%) and female (85.7%).A percentage of (84.6%) of female and (70.2%) of males would be nervous of those who use illegal substances. Also (76.9%) of female and (68.2%) of male would tend to avoid drug addicts.
Conclusion: General knowledge about globally and locally used illicit substances is not enough for both genders. Negative attitudes towards substance abusers and substance abuse were clearly apparent in their responses. Youth population agreed with spending money on the treatment of as much as possible of substance abusers. The population showed good knowledge about the ways and factors that may help in prevention of substance abuse.
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