Use of Illicit Substances Among Schoolchildren in Colombo District, Sri Lanka

• NCJ Number: 243671
• Journal: Substance Abuse Volume: 34 Issue: 2 Dated: April - June 2013 Pages: 137-142
• Author(s): Isurujith Kongala Liyanage, M.B.B.S.; Kremlin Wickramasinghe, M.B.B.S., M.Sc.; Himali Erandathie Ratnayake, M.B.B.S.; Paula Palmer, Ph.D.; David R. Matthews, M.A., D.Phil; Prasad Katulanda, M.B.B.S., M.D., D.Phil
• Date Published: May 2013
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study aimed to understand the usage patterns and correlates of illicit drug use among school children in Colombo district, Sri Lanka.

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was carried out among grade 10 and 12 students using a self-administered questionnaire. From the 6,000 students selected, 5,353 (89.22 percent) responded. Betel chewing with tobacco was seen in 28.48 percent males and 10.44 percent females. Substances such as Barbul, Madana Modaka, and cough syrups that are not established as illicit drugs were used as psychoactive substances. Ingredients of some of these compounds are not fully understood or regulated. Prevalence of cannabis use was 3.85 percent in males and 0.24 percent in females. Studying nonscience subjects for Advanced Level, doing sports, low academic performance, and peer smoking significantly increased the odds of using one or more substances (P less than .05). Many types of illicit substances were used by schoolchildren. More strategies to prevent further aggravation of these behaviors are needed. Constituents of some compounds are not understood and need further evaluation. Recognized high-risk groups can be targets for preventive and cessation programs. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.