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Psychoactive Substance Use and Associated Factors Among Adolescent Commercial Tricycle Riders in Tamale, Ghana: A
Yaa Nyarko Adjeso1, Zaratu Bimonka Alhassan1, Joseph Lasong1
1Department of Population and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health University for Development Studies Tamale Ghana.
Health Science Reports
|August 11, 2026
Summary
Psychoactive substance use (PSU) is high among adolescent tricycle riders in Ghana, with 60.8% reporting use. Factors like religion, family size, and peer influence contribute to this public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Substance Use Research
Background:
- Psychoactive substance use (PSU) presents a significant global public health challenge.
- Adolescent PSU is escalating in many nations, including Ghana.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and associated factors of PSU among adolescent commercial tricycle riders in Tamale, Ghana.
- To identify key determinants influencing substance use in this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted.
- 342 adolescent commercial tricycle operators were recruited using a multistage sampling technique.
- Data were collected via structured questionnaires.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of PSU was found to be 60.8%.
- Common reasons for PSU included perceived acceptability, enhanced self-confidence, and improved work performance.
- Significant factors influencing PSU included religious affiliation, paternal education, family size, and peer introduction.
Conclusions:
- High PSU rates were observed among adolescent commercial tricycle operators in Tamale, exacerbated by poverty and child labor.
- Recommendations include enforcing child protection laws, regulating adolescent employment in transport, and inter-agency collaboration.
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