Addictive behavior in adolescents in Kairouan (Tunisia)

Abstract Background and aims The levels of use of some psychoactive substances, especially alcohol, tobacco and cannabis, remain high among adolescents, despite progress in regulatory efforts to limit access to these products. Our objective is to determine the prevalence of addictive behavior among middle school students in the Kairouan region and to specify the risk factors. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in public schools of Kairouan (Tunisia) during one month (May 2016). Students aged 13 to 16 were included in the study. The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software version 18. Results A total of 2020 students participated in this study with mean age of 13.9 ± 1.2 years. A male predominance was noted (44.1%, n = 890). The prevalence of addictive behavior was 7.1% (95% CI = [6% - 8.2%]). Multivariate analysis showed that the probability of addictive behavior decreased in young women (OR = 0.05, 95% CI = [0.02 - 0.09]) from rural origin (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = [0.32 - 0.83]). Independent risk factors associated with addictive behavior were: Age (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = [1.16 - 1.66]), family history of suicide (OR = 4.42, 95% CI = [ 2.56 - 7.62]), repeating the school year (OR = 2.91, 95% CI = [1.84 - 4.60]), physical aggression (OR = 1.78; 95% CI = [1.06 - 2.98]) and depression (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = [1 - 2.43]). Conclusions The entourage and caregivers are important actors to help adolescent to verbalize his suffering and find other ways to fight against the depressive affects. Key messages Prevalence of psychoactive substance use is very high in middle school students. Identification of risk factors is important for prevention program planning at an early stage.