The prevalence of substance abuse in hospitalized medically ill patients in Rasoul-Akram hospital.

Introduction Substance abuse can lead to increased risk of accidents leading to serious physical damage and can also cause medical diseases. On the other hand, patients with medical diseases may self-medicate with substances to improve some of their medical symptoms such as pain. Therefore, the risk of hospitalization of patients with substance abuse can be higher. Substance abuse can affect the course and prognosis of medical diseases. Aims The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of substance abuse in medically ill patients in Rasoul-Akram hospital. Methods This study was a cross-sectional study. The sampling method was convenient. Demographic data and the data about substance use disorders were gathered through a clinical interview by a psychiatrist. Inclusion criteria included informed consent to participate in the study, an appropriate level of consciousness and the ability to talk in Persian. Results From 423 patients participating in the study, 205 were female (48.5%). The average age of the patients was 18.4 ± 48.4 years. The prevalence of substance abuse was 39.7%, of which 60% were consuming daily. The prevalence of substance abuse between male and female was not significantly different. Marital status and low education and older age had significant association with substance abuse. Smoking and opioids followed by alcohol, cannabis and benzodiazepines were the most substances used by patients. Conclusion The prevalence of substance use disorders in hospitalized patients in General hospital is high and it is crucial to assess substance use disorders in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]