Substance Use Disorder and Associated Factors Among Internal Displaced Adults in Mekelle, Ethiopia

Displacement, with its associated trauma and disruption, significantly affects the health and well-being of internally displaced individuals, often leading to substance use disorders. However, there is a lack of research on this issue in Tigray, Ethiopia, particularly among the most vulnerable population: internally displaced adults. Therefore, it is important to assess and identify the factors associated with the development of substance use disorders among these internally displaced adults.

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of substance use disorders among internal displaced adult in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, 2023/2024.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 internal displaced adults in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, from December 28, 2023, to January 18, 2024. Study participants were selected by a systematic random sampling technique. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27 was used for binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Four hundred sixteen (416) adults participated in the study, and 55% of them were females. The prevalence of substance use disorders was 10.8% [95% CI: 7.9-14.2]. Family separation, anxiety, and severe depression were the factors significantly associated with substance use disorder.

Substance use disorder (SUD) represents an important public health concern among internally displaced persons. Stakeholders should collaborate to support family reunification, offer psychological support, and establish treatment centers within internally displaced person's camps.