Substance Dependence in a Tribal District.
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Date
2013-04
Journal Title
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Abstract
Introduction: Retrospective study was carried out with
an aim to understand the status of substance dependence
in Adilabad which is a tribal district of Telangana region
and to know the possible reasons behind it. Material and
Methods: Records from September 2009 to August 2010
was collected and analysed from patients of RIMS Adilabad.
Cases of single substance dependence or polysubstance
dependence and associated disorders were included in the
study. Parameters were incidence, socio-demographics,
age, sex, polysubstance dependence, alcohol dependence,
comorbidity, management of substance dependence and
hospital stay. Results: A total of 157 patients included in the
study. Significant (p<0.05) seasonal variations were
observed. Villagers 57.32%, Hindus 92.36%, Muslims
6.37% with mean age of 37 years was observed. Female
to male ratio was 0.05:1. 86% females were from tribal
villages, chronic beedi smokers and all had family history.
Polysubstance dependence (3.18%) included alcohol 100%
and cannabis 2.55%. Chronic alcoholics 44.59%, moderate
quantity in 76%, consciousness in 53%, handmade liquor
in 18% and alcohol without food in 7.64% observed.
Associated comorbidity seen in 70.70% cases. Death
occurred in 3.18% cases. Ranitidine and ampicillin were
mainly given. Mean hospital stay was 2.26 days.
Conclusion: Productive age group and handmade liquor is
common but polysubstance dependence is negligible.
Comprehensive strategy involving education, counselling,
treatment and rehabilitation programs are needed to fight
against substance dependence in the region.
Description
Keywords
alcohol, drug dependence, substance abuse
Citation
Bashir M S M, Kosaraju S K M, Khade A M, Bhagat S. Substance Dependence in a Tribal District. Indian Medical Gazette. 2013 Apr ; 147 (4): 119-127.