Prevalence, Pattern and Predictors of Substance abuse among In-School Adolescents in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

Abstract

Background: Harmful use of substances by adolescents is adjudged a global epidemic by the World Health Organization, affecting both the individual and society. This study assessed the prevalence, patterns and predictors of substance abuse among in-school adolescents in Yenagoa Bayelsa State Nigeria

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in year 2022 among 310 secondary school adolescents, selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire adapted from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) Core Questionnaire, specifically the 2021 version of the Drug Use Module. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25; level of significance was p ≤ 0.05 at 95% Confidence Interval. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to determine the association between categorical variables. Predictors were determined by binary logistic regression.

Result: The mean age of the participants was 15.07 ± 1.573 years. Lifetime substance abuse prevalence was 32.3%, with a 12-month rate of 20.6%, including 13 (4.3%) daily users. The most abused substances were Alcohol 87(90.6%), Marijuana 20(20.5%) and Shisha 18(18.8%) and mean age of initiation was 12.42±2.971 years. Relaxation 23(24.0%) and curiosity 18(18.8%) were the most common reasons provided. Predictors include older adolescents, mother’s educational level, from a polygamous setting, negative influences from family members, easy access to drugs and money, and history of sexual abuse (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Substance abuse among in-school adolescents is widespread, with initiation at younger ages. The most abused substances are alcohol, cannabis, and shisha. Prevention should target younger adolescents before they start using these substances.