Pattern of substance abuse among adolescent secondary school students in Abakaliki

Background: Substance abuse is a rising public health problem especially among adolescents the worlds over. Abuse of substances exposes the youth to several physical and psychological consequences. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and pattern of substance abuse amongst secondary school students in Abakaliki and identify factors predisposing to substance abuse. Methods: A cross section survey of 620 senior secondary students (SS2 and 3) using the WHO drug use questionnaire. Results: A prevalence of substance abuse was 32.9% alcohol being the most commonly abused substance. Substance abuse was more amongst males, older students, persons from divorced home and orphans. It was however less amongst those who frequently participated in religious activities. Conclusion: Substance abuse is high among secondary school students in Abakaliki and alcohol is the most commonly abused substance.