Sociodemographic Indicators for Substance Use and Abuse in Egypt

Background:Addiction is a major problem in Egypt, due to rapidly growing and changing patterns of substance use. Identifying the socio-demographic characteristics of users may guide decision makers to plan for the eradication of this community problem. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based survey of samples of the population by teams of trained clinical social workers. The survey was completed over 6 phases to cover 26 out of 27 Egyptian governorates (last 4 phases in 18 governorates are illustrated in this manuscript). Results: A total of 106480 subjects were included in the sample, representing approximately 0.2% the Egyptian population above the age of 15. A proportion of 19.3% were experimental users, 6.7% were regular on substance use, while 6.4% were fulfilling the criteria of dependence. Significant associations were found between substance use and gender, age, residence, education, occupation, and marital status. Conclusion: There are considerable regional variations in the overall rates of substance use/abuse in Egypt. However, the demographic risk factors are remarkably consistent across regions with only minor differences. Substance use and abuse have higher lifetime prevalence among young and middle aged males, less educated persons, working in technical or commercial jobs, with failed marriage, and living in urban areas.