Prevalence and Correlates of Substance Use Among Adults in Ghaziabad District, Western Uttar Pradesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Substance use is a major public health challenge in India, with urban districts like Ghaziabad facing unique risks due to rapid urbanization and socioeconomic diversity. The purpose was to estimate the prevalence of substance, use among adults in Ghaziabad district, to categorize the substance users into risk categories based on the pattern of use, and to study the factors associated with substance use. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 492 adults aged ≥18 years, selected through multistage stratified random sampling from both urban (n=340) and rural (n=152) areas. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating sociodemographic details, WHO ASSIST tool, psychosocial and sociocultural details. Results: A total of 492 participants were included in the study. The prevalence of substance use was 47.36%. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, male gender, illiteracy, skilled occupation, upper socioeconomic status, occupational stress, poor quality of marital life, risky peer behavior, and lower religiousness were independently associated with substance use. Conclusion: The study highlights a considerable burden of substance use among adults in Ghaziabad district, targeted interventions, awareness programs, and integration of screening into primary healthcare are urgently needed.