DRUG USE AND ABUSE: ITS CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES AMONG UNIVERSITY OF BENIN STUDENTS.

ABSTRACT

Findings reveals that drug abuse is a problem that has posed a serious threat on the social, economic and health conditions on individuals, families, nations and the global world. It is also known phenomenon that some widely abused drugs are cigarettes, cannabis, tramadol, cough syrup and inhalants and that apart from peer group, drug sellers are to blame as they encourage youths into drug use. It also reveals that lack of enforcement by government, illicit drug vendors and untrained health personnel are the reason for the prevalence of drug use and abuse and also students who engage in drug use and abuse due to the need for pleasure, relaxation and satisfying curiosity also contributes to the prevalence of drug use and abuse. 82 The study findings also show that the influence of peer pressure on young people can lead them to participate in negative activities such as drug use and abuse. It also reveals that children who suffer from prolonged absence of parental affection and other related matrimonial problems are more susceptible to drug use and abuseandthat some children may also inherit a predisposition to drug abuse and addiction from their parents through their genes. It shows that youths living in a drug use free environment such as ghettos and slums have a high likelihood of inculcating the habit of drug use and that children from low-income families have been found to be more susceptible to the risk of drug use and abuse. Also drug abuse constitutes a significant part of health problems affecting not only the abusers but also the non-users. The study findings shows that drug abuse can lead to various health problems including heart related issues like high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack. It also reveals that drug abusers are liable to mental retardation and disorders which may range from mild disorders to severe mental disorders. It reveals that drug use and abuse may also decrease the chances of university students being substantial investors which may lead to poor academic performance and thatpreventive education of drug use and abuse in schools and communities 83 can help encourage youths to recognize the benefits of adopting drug free and healthy life style. The study findings shows that the involvement of community groups, opinion leaders, religious leaders and NGOs in creating awareness and campaigns against drug use and abuse can help reduce the prevalence of drug use and abuse. Findings from the study also illustrates that studies should be carried out to examine the trends, patterns and frequency of drug abuse issues so as to implement effective policies that can possibly eradicate or curb drug use and abuse.