IJSR - International Journal of Scientific Research

Sumitha G; Pompa Mukherjee

Volume : VIII, Issue : VIII, August - 2019

A descriptive study to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding ill effects of substance use among adults in a selected rural community of Maharashtra.

Sumitha G, Pompa Mukherjee

Abstract :

Introduction â€“ Drug abuse is a major health problem in India and world at large. Use and abuse of drugs and smoking provides instant release from the pressure of life. Substance abuse, also known as drug abuse, is a patterned use of a substance (drug) in which the user consumes the substance in amounts or with methods neither approved nor supervised by medical professionals. Substance abuse has a number of negative effects on a family, which include teå the family apart, loss of employment, failure in school, increasing domestic violence, child abuse, and other crimes. It is a complex disorder that often has other significant physical, emotional and mental effects in the abuser and his family members. Use of these drugs may lead to criminal penalty in addition to possible physical, social, and psychological harm, both strongly depending on local jurisdiction Long term personality changes in individuals may occur as well. There is a high rate of suicide in alcoholics and other drug abusers. Objectives:– To assess the knowledge and attitude regarding the ill effects of substance use. Population: Adults between the age group of 20–50 years Methods:– A cross–sectional descriptive study with Convenience sampling technique was used to collect data from 50 samples. The research variables were substance use, knowledge attitude, ill effects. Based on the objectives a semi–structured questionnaire was prepared to identify sociodemographic variables along with knowledge and attitude on substance use. Data was analysed using simple statistical tests. Results:– Majority of the subjects are found to possess high knowledge (92%). Almost 82% have a positive attitude regarding not to use substance Conclusion– The finding of the study revealed the existing level of knowledge & attitude about the impact of substance abuse on society.