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- DOI 10.18231/j.ijfmts.49353.1759561471
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CrossMark
Prevalence and patterns of substance use among women: An Egyptian cross-sectional study
- Author Details:
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Rania Abdel Maguid Kaka *
Rania Abdel Maguid Kaka *
Background: Substance use among females is growing, presenting a significant public health and forensic challenge that affects individuals and communities. This study explored the prevalence and patterns of substance use among a sample of Egyptian females, emphasizing their awareness of associated risks. It also investigated the toxicological and legal hazards faced due to substance use, highlighting the interplay between that problem and the socio-legal environment.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, from July 1 to December 31, 2023. This study involved a non-random sample of Egyptian females aged 18 to 60 (n = 482). A structured, self-administered questionnaire served as the data collection tool.
Results: Of the 482 women, 34.6% (n=167) reported substance use. The largest group of users (38.3%) was in the 26-35 age range. There was a significant association between marital status and substance use (p <0.001). Tobacco had the highest dependence rate at 66.6%, followed by psychotropics at 24%. The main motivation for substance use was emotional relief (51.5%), with performance enhancement at 19.8%. Awareness of risks such as overdose (86.2%) and organ damage (85.0%) was high, but understanding of withdrawal symptoms and drug interactions was limited. Common acute toxicity symptoms included respiratory issues (70.7%) and nausea/vomiting (58.7%), yet only 13.8% sought medical help. Legal consequences were minimal, with no arrests, but 28.1% faced drug testing and 19.2% experienced violent incidents due to impaired judgment.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated strategies combining mental health support, education, and harm reduction to address the rising substance use burden among females in Egypt. Improving forensic toxicology, expanding emergency care access, and reforming drug use laws could significantly lessen individual and societal harm. Future research should focus on monitoring emerging drugs and assessing context-specific interventions.