Perceptions, Practices and Prevalence Of Psychoactive Substances Among Students In The Faculty Of Medical Sciences, University Of The West Indies St Augustine Campus, Trinidad And Tobago

Abstract

This paper highlights the attitudes and practices of university students enrolled in the faculty of medical sciences regarding substance abuse. The cross sectional study was conducted over six months in which 308 students responded to a questionnaire distributed via email and social media. The 1-month prevalence rate for alcohol and cigarette use was found to be 53% and 9.1% respectively. Binge drinking had a prevalence of 29.0%. Marijuana was the second most frequently used drug with a 1-month prevalence of 13.4%. In general, alcohol was the most frequently used substance followed by marijuana. The participants showed a positive attitude towards the use of marijuana. While the use of tranquilizers, stimulants and cocaine was present, it was relatively low compared to the other substances.