Title : Knowledge, attitude and utilization of psychoactive substances among secondary school students in Surulere Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria
Abstract:
Background: Psychoactive substance use among adolescents is a growing public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. Early initiation, peer influence, and limited awareness of health risks increase vulnerability to substance misuse and its associated adverse outcomes. However, data on knowledge, attitudes, and utilization among secondary school students in urban Nigerian settings remain limited.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 565 secondary school students in Surulere Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and psychoactive substance use. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were used for analysis.
Results: The mean age of participants was 13.9 ± 1.9 years, with 53.8% female. Most students demonstrated good knowledge of psychoactive substances, though misconceptions persisted. While 55.0% expressed discouraging attitudes, 45.0% held permissive or neutral views. Approximately 26.2% reported lifetime use, with alcohol, cigarettes, and cannabis most common. The mean age of initiation was 11.2 years. Peer pressure, academic stress, and curiosity were key drivers. Although no statistically significant predictors were identified, younger adolescents showed a higher likelihood of use.
Conclusion: Despite adequate knowledge, early initiation and substantial prevalence of psychoactive substance use persist among adolescents. These findings highlight the need for targeted, context-specific prevention strategies addressing peer influence and early exposure in urban African settings.
