Publication Details
Abstract
Among the most vulnerable populations that are faced by the complex and pervasive issue of drug abuse that poses significant risks to individuals, families, communities, and societies at large are students. They often find themselves navigating critical developmental stages while facing numerous challenges. This study, prospectively determined the Awareness and Attitude of 278 Nigeria Radiography Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University towards risks associated with drug abuse in the country. It also determined students' understanding of prevention strategies used to curb drug abuse. Random sampling were used in selecting participants during data collection. Participants included all radiography students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University. A well-structured questionnaire in line with the study objective was used. Descriptive data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0 for Windows Evaluation Version. Continuous variable was presented as mean and standard deviation. Out of the 278 participants, 234(84.2%) strongly agreed that it is risky to abuse drugs because it can have an impact on their academic performance and future goals. Majority, 270(97.1%) of the respondents were aware of the legal status of drug abuse. The attitude of the students was conservative with regards to the use of illegal drugs. 31(11.2%) students knew where drugs are sold on campus. Out of the 31 Radiography students, 61.3% said that the least price for which drugs are being sold on campus is 500 Naira. The study concludes that drug abuse is a social problem basically associated with young people. These young people involve themselves in taking hard drugs. Students’ major source of formation about drug abuse is friends. It was finally concluded that drug abuse is not very common among Radiography students’ population studied.