Psychoactive substance use among commercial tricycle riders in the Kano Metropolis, Northwest Nigeria: prevalence, pattern, and correlates

Abstract

Background: The use of psychoactive substances among commercial road users is not only increasing but strangely predisposing
them and their passengers to health hazards. There is a paucity of data on the prevalence and risk factors for psychoactive substance
use among commercial tricycle riders in the Kano metropolis, hence the aim of this study. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design conducted among 227 commercial tricycle riders in the Kano metropolis. The data was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire designed by the authors and analysed using SPSS Version 26.0. Results: Approximately 15% of the riders use psychoactive substances. About 66% of them were influenced by friends and 25% by family members. Among them, 33% started taking substances on/before 16 years, while 62% started on/before 18 years. The main reasons for the persistent use of psychoactive substances are relaxation (31%), relieving anxiety (25%), and enhancing work productivity (21%). The commonly abused substances among the respondents are tobacco (59%) Caffeine (15%), and Alcohol (12%). With a p-value set at 0.05, a significant relationship between religion and lifetime prevalence of psychoactive substance use was found; but not for tribe, marital status, level of education and age. Conclusion: The study found that most users were introduced by friends and continued to use these substances to relax, relieve anxiety, and boost productivity. Religion significantly influences the lifetime prevalence of substance abuse. We recommend the
need to increase awareness among decision-makers of the need for substance abuse control.