Prevalence of Substance Abuse Among Undergraduate Medical Students in South-east Rajasthan: A Cross-sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.02.16Keywords:
Psychoactive; Abuse; Medical students; Social; AddictionAbstract
Background & Objectives: Substance abuse among medical students is an escalating public health concern. Despite receiving extensive education on the physiological and psychological detriments of psychoactive substances, medical trainees remain a high-risk demography due to rigorous academic demands and environmental transitions. To determine the prevalence, patterns of use, and psychosocial motivators for substance abuse among undergraduate medical students.
Key words: Psychoactive; Abuse; Medical students; Social; Addiction
Methods: An anonymous, cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 243 undergraduate medical students (academic batches of 2022 and 2023) in Jhalawar medical college in South-East Rajasthan. Data regarding the type of substance, acquisition sources, and primary motivators were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.
Results: Out of 243 respondents, alcohol was the most commonly abused substance (20.57%), followed by tobacco (11.52%). The use of cannabis (4.52%) and unprescribed medications (4.52%) was also reported. No students reported cocaine use. The primary sources of acquisition were friends and local dealers. Recreation (41.25% of motivations cited) and stress (30%) were the leading catalysts for initiation.
Interpretation and conclusion: A significant proportion of medical students engage in substance use, primarily driven by recreational seeking and academic stress. There is an urgent need for institutional interventions, including accessible mental health support and peer-mentorship programs, to promote healthier coping mechanisms among future physicians
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