Substance Use among Lebanese University Students: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Scientific research on use and misuse of substances in Lebanon is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the rate of use and abuse of substances among Lebanese youth and identify the determinants and risk factors behind these behaviours.

The prevalence of ever consuming alcohol was 20.9%. Cannabis (12.3%) and tranquilizers (11%) had the highest rates of ever use among the drugs, whereas cocaine (3.3%) and hallucinogens (3.6%) had the lowest rates. Smoking cigarettes and waterpipes, going out at night, peer pressure and having no specific leisure time activity were associated with problematic substance use, while a better relationship with parents, reading and working were inversely associated with use. 

There is a high prevalence of substance use among university students in Lebanon. Multidisciplinary support for addicted students is needed to meet their diverse needs.

Via: http://ht.ly/Sdk6I 

By: Salameh P1, Rachidi S2, Al-Hajje A2, Awada S2, Chouaib K3, Saleh N4, Bawab W2.

• 1Laboratoire de recherche clinique et épidémiologique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban); École doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban); Faculté de Santé publique, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban).
• 2Laboratoire de recherche clinique et épidémiologique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban); École doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban).
• 3École doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban).
• 4École doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban); Faculté de Santé publique, Université Libanaise, Beyrouth (Liban).