The Relationship between Substance Abuse with Risk Behaviors among Youth in Schools in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
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Abstract
Objectives: This survey research aimed to examine the association between substance use and risk behaviors among the youth in educational institutions in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Methods: The sample consisted of 2,497 students from three private institutions, ranging from elementary to higher education levels. Data were collected via questionnaires during the 2019 academic year. Descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were used for analysis. Risk factors were analyzed using chi-square tests, odds ratios (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results: Of the total sample, 55.2% were female, with a mean age of 17.7 years. Overall, 8.6% reported having used substances, with the highest proportion found among vocational students (15.1%). The average age of first substance use was under 15 years across all educational levels. Cannabis was the most commonly used substance (56.6%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that substance use was significantly associated with increased risks of engaging in physical fights (OR = 4.2, 95% CI [2.9, 5.9]), hospitalization due to fighting (OR = 7.0, 95% CI [4.2, 11.6]), physical/health problems (OR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.3, 2.4]), learning/emotional difficulties (OR = 1.9, 95% CI [1.4, 2.5]), feelings of hopelessness or depression (OR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.3, 2.9]), self-harm (OR = 3.4, 95% CI [2.5, 4.7]), and suicidal ideation (OR = 3.4, 95% CI [2.2, 5.0]
Substance use among youth is associated with a range of physical and mental health risks that can impair development and reduce quality of life. Ongoing surveillance of youth substance use and related risk behaviors is essential to monitor trends and inform targeted prevention strategies.
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