Psychoactive Substance Use Among Long Distance Vehicle Drivers In Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

Background Globally, the association between psychoative substance use and
accidental injury or death has been acknowledged, with efforts being made to reduce
accident rates in all means of transportation. While many studies have examined the use of
psychoactive substances among many occupational groups, including drivers, not many
has focused on substances use among long distance vehicle drivers.
Aim We determined the prevalence, pattern and factors associated with the use of
psychoactive substances among long distance vehicle (LDV) drivers in Ilorin, Nigeria.
Method All consecutive consenting LDV drivers seen at the study period were
interviewed using a modified, pilot-tested, semi-structed self-report questionnaire based
on the World Health Organisation\'s guideliness for student\'s substance use survey.
Result It was found that the most currently used psychoactive substances were mild
stimulants (31.9%), cigrattes (30.4%), anabolic steroids (27.5%) and alcohol (15.9%).
Except for cigrattes, the other substances were used mainly for instrumental purposes.
Only about 50% of the respondents had ever attended a health talk on drug abuse. High
level of religiousity was less likely to be associated with current use of mild stimulants and
sedatives. Current use of sedatives was also significantly associated with poor mental
health.
Conclusion With only 50% exposure to drug abuse campaign among drivers, we
suggest that more efforts should be made to enlighten LDV drivers on the dangers of
substances use and abuse. Such campaigns should take advantage of religion and the
strong influence of the Driver\'s Unions on member. These efforts, we hope, will go a long
way in reducing loss of lives and properties on our roads. Though no significant association
was found between current drug use and rate of accidents, we suggest a larger scope study be conducted to corroborate or refute this finding.

Nigerian Journal of Psychiatry Vol. 5 (1) 2007: pp. 14-18