Unveiling patterns: A cross-sectional analysis of drug prevalence among secondary school students in Douala, Cameroon

The escalating prevalence of psychoactive substance use (Pa SU) presents a significant concern in the African context, particularly among schooling adolescents, leading to potential physical and mental health complications, making substance use a giant monster for every developing society. To address this, the study focused on determining the prevalence and understanding the factors associated with psychoactive substance (Pa SU) among secondary school students in the Douala III and Douala IV districts. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2023, engaging students in secondary schools in the Douala III and Douala IV districts. Utilizing a self-administered questionnaire, comprehensive data on student sociodemographic, parental social information, and patterns of psychoactive substance use were collected. Statistical analyses, performed using SPSS, explored associated factors, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Enrolling 1054 students, the study reflected a male-to-female sex ratio of 3:2, with an average age of 15.29 ± 1.9 years (range: 12 to 20 years). Psychoactive substance life tune use (Pa SU) experimentation prevalence reached 91.0%, while current consumption was noted at 42.8%, exhibiting a male predominance. Alcohol emerged as the most frequently consumed substance, succeeded by caffeine and nicotine. Cannabis stood as the sole illicit substance, with tramadol being the only psychotropic medication used without medical guidance. Male gender (AOR = 1.58; CI: 1.07-2.34; p = 0.022), age > 16 years (AOR = 2.94; CI: 2.02-4.27; p < 0.001), the presence of a family member using psychoactive substances at home (AOR = 3.80; CI: 2.61-5.53; p < 0.001), and the presence of a friend using psychoactive substances in the surroundings (AOR = 32.92; CI: 22.02-49.20; p < 0.001) were independently identified as risk factors associated with current PaSU among students. This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and associated factors of psychoactive substance use among secondary school students in Douala, Cameroon. The results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and parental awareness programs to mitigate the impact of psychoactive substance use on adolescents.