Evaluation of sociodemographic data in patients treated in an alcohol and drug addiction treatment center (ASATC) clinic

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Drug abuse is an increasing public health problem in our country as well as worldwide. The incidence of drug abuse is about 2.7% in our country. Sociodemographic data about the treated persons are limited. This limitation may pose an obstacle in making policies and delivery of healthcare services. In this study, we aimed to reveal some sociodemographic features of the patients treated in an alcohol and substance addiction treatment center (ASATC) clinic in Bursa province. METHODS: Files of 434 patients hospitalized and treated in an alcohol and drug addiction treatment center (ASATC) clinic in Bursa province were retrospectively screened, and sociodemographic data of the patients were obtained. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS v. 23 statistical software. RESULTS: Of the 434 patients included in the study, 94.5% (n=410) were males and 5.5% (n=24) were female with a mean age of 31.95 ± 11.42 years. Looking to the types of drugs; 74% were addicted to multiple drugs (synthetic cannabis and methamphetamine) and 18.2% were alcohol abusers. When educational status of the patients was examined, majority (>70%) were found to be educated under 10 years. 41.2% of the patients were found to be the childrens of families that have migrated to Bursa province. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Addiction is an increasing public health. Making policies and interventions considering these sociodemographic factors would be the major step in fight against drugs.

Keywords

• addiction
• alcohol
• drugs
• sociodemographic