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Substance use among Iranian nephrologic patients
Jamshid Ahmadi1, Leila Benrazavi
1Department of Psychiatry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. jamshid_ahmadi@yahoo.com
American Journal of Nephrology
|March 29, 2002
Summary
Substance use, particularly tobacco, opium, and alcohol, is prevalent among Iranian patients with chronic renal failure. Findings highlight the need for tailored preventive and therapeutic programs considering cultural attitudes towards substance use.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Public Health
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Substance use poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals with chronic renal failure.
- Understanding the prevalence and patterns of substance use in this vulnerable population is crucial for effective healthcare.
- Nephrologic disease, including chronic renal failure, affects kidney function and overall health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of substance use among patients with nephrologic disease in Shiraz, Iran.
- To identify the types of substances used and patterns of dependency.
- To explore potential correlations between substance use and demographic factors.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted.
- Structured interviews were administered to 64 randomly selected patients (32 men, 32 women).
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria were used to assess substance dependency.
Main Results:
- 40.6% of patients reported lifetime substance use; 31.3% were currently substance dependent.
- Tobacco (35.9%), opium (14.1%), and alcohol (3.1%) were the most commonly used substances.
- Nicotine dependence (28.1%) and opium dependence (9.4%) were most frequent; no use of cannabis, heroin, cocaine, or LSD was reported.
- No significant relationship was found between substance use and income, occupation, or education.
Conclusions:
- Substance use, especially of cigarettes, opium, and alcohol, is notably high in Iranian patients with nephrologic disease.
- Cultural attitudes significantly influence the type and extent of substance use.
- The findings underscore the importance of integrating substance use screening and interventions into the care of patients with chronic renal failure.