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Consumption of dependence-producing substances in Colombia
Y Torres de Galvis1, L Murrelle
1National Public Health Faculty, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
Bulletin of the Pan American Health Organization
|January 1, 1990
Summary
In 1987 Colombia, a survey found high alcohol and tobacco use. Illegal drug use was lower, but basuca use, particularly among men, poses significant public health risks.
Area of Science:
- * Epidemiology
- * Public Health
- * Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- * The 1987 Colombian survey investigated the prevalence of dependence-producing substances.
- * Six substances were examined: alcohol, tobacco, tranquilizers, marijuana, coca paste (basuca), and cocaine.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To determine the usage rates of various dependence-producing substances in urban Colombian populations.
- * To identify demographic differences in substance use patterns.
- * To assess the public health implications of specific drug use, particularly basuca.
Main Methods:
- * A survey was conducted among 2,800 urban residents aged 12-64.
- * The study covered four major Colombian cities: Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín.
- * Data collection focused on the self-reported use of six specified substances.
Main Results:
- * Alcohol and tobacco were the most commonly used substances, with 8.1% identified as alcoholics and 7.3% at risk.
- * Men reported higher usage rates than women for all substances except tranquilizers.
- * Prevalence of illegal substance use (marijuana, basuca, cocaine) was lower; marijuana use surpassed the other two combined. Notably, 1% of males reported recent basuca use.
Conclusions:
- * Alcohol and tobacco represent significant public health concerns in urban Colombia.
- * The high prevalence of basuca use among males indicates a critical public health issue due to its rapid harm.
- * Gender disparities exist in the use of most surveyed substances.