SOCIOECONOMIC EFFECTS OF METHAMPHETAMINE ON ADDICTS OF DIFFERENT AGES: A CROSS- SECTIONAL STUDY IN PESHAWAR
Main Article Content
Keywords
Methamphetamine, Addiction, Interpersonal relationships, financial difficulties, Unemployment, Socioeconomic status
Abstract
Introduction: This cross-sectional study addresses the significant impact of methamphetamine (ice) on the socioeconomic conditions of drug users in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It draws attention to a concerning global trend highlighted in the World Medication Report (2021), which indicates a rise in methamphetamine use, particularly in Asia, where a significant portion of users resides.
Objectives: The objectives of the study are:
Identify the age at which methamphetamine misuse is more common.
Discuss socioeconomic factors associated with the development of methamphetamine misuse.
Methodology: "A 6-month cross-sectional study (April-Sept 2024) in Peshawar, KPK, investigated the impact of methamphetamine misuse among males. The study, conducted at two rehabilitation centers, included males aged 10-63 with methamphetamine misuse disorder, excluding those with serious comorbidities."
Results: A survey of 115 male patients from two drug rehabilitation centers found that young adults (66.1%) and singles (56.5%) were predominant. The study revealed a positive attitude towards treatment (p=0.011) and a trend towards tolerance development and cessation of ICE use (p=0.056).
Conclusion: "Methamphetamine misuse is common among young adults, causing social isolation, economic hardship, and financial struggles. This study highlights the need for further research with a more diverse sample to better understand the socioeconomic impacts of methamphetamine addiction."
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Javeria Khan
4th Year Medical Student Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
Muhammad Saad
4th Year Medical Student Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
Arsalna Zeb
4th Year Medical Student Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
Sulaiman Azam Khan
4th Year Medical Student Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
Mustafa Ahmad
4th Year Medical Student Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
Nazish Waheed
Professor of Anatomy (MBBS, MPhil, PhD),Department of Anatomy, Jinnah Medical College, Peshawar
