Pakistani Medical Students' Views on Drugs and Alcohol
Author Information
Author(s): Shafiq Majid, Shah Zaman, Saleem Ayesha, Siddiqi Maham T, Shaikh Kashif S, Salahuddin Farah F, Siwani Rizwan, Naqvi Haider
Primary Institution: Aga Khan University
Hypothesis
What are the perceptions of medical students in Pakistan regarding drug and alcohol use?
Conclusion
Educating students about the dangers of drug intake and its moral and religious implications is likely to be more beneficial than increased policing.
Supporting Evidence
- 96% of students cited peer pressure as a reason for drug use.
- 60% said drugs did not improve exam performance.
- 78% of students did not intend to take drugs in the future.
- 54% believed drugs helped alleviate stress.
- 78% suggested better counseling facilities to reduce drug abuse.
Takeaway
Medical students in Pakistan think drugs are bad, but many still feel pressure to use them. They want more help and fun activities instead of just being punished.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using a pre-tested questionnaire administered to undergraduate medical students.
Potential Biases
Selection bias due to the affluent background of the students in the private medical college.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a single private medical college, which may not represent all medical students in Pakistan.
Participant Demographics
174 students, 96 males and 78 females, aged 18 to 25 years, with a mean age of 21.3 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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