Tobacco, Alcohol, Substance use Patterns and Associated Risk Factors in a Representative Sample of High School Students in Corum, Turkey

Background: Taking measures against addictive substance would be a correct public health policy in adolescent health. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of addictive substances use and associated risk factors among adolescent in Corum / Turkey. Methods: The target population of this cross-sectional study has been layered based on the place and type of high school in order to determine the respective numbers of students in the sample from these layers according to their ratios within the target population. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic models was used for statistical analysis and significance level was deemed to be p<0.05 for tests. Results: The lifetime prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption and drug use were 32.3%, 18.7% and 5.1%, respectively. The frequency of drug use and alcohol use during lifetime were found to be statistically increased in regular smokers as compared to others (p<0.001). Male gender, starting to smoke before the age of 13 and lower level education of mother have been found as a risk factor for Turkish adolescents (p<0.05). Conclusion: We are of the opinion that addressing the addictive substances as a whole in prevention programs targeting at mitigating risky behaviors would be the correct approach.