Drug-facilitated sexual assault (spiking) in Poland: risk perception, knowledge, and bystander intentions

To estimate the prevalence of self-reported suspicion of spiking among adults in Poland and to examine sociodemographic determinants of suspicion, concern, symptom recognition, and preventive knowledge in the context of drug-facilitated sexual assault.

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted between 18 and 27 March 2025 using computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI). A stratified quota sample of 1,000 adults was drawn to reflect the national distribution by sex, age, and place of residence. A structured questionnaire assessed suspected exposure to a "date rape drug" (spiking), frequency of concern at social events, knowledge of intoxication symptoms, preventive knowledge, and intended bystander actions. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations with sex, age, education, sexual orientation, and place of residence.

Suspicion of spiking was reported by 19.4% of respondents, and 18.1% expressed frequent or constant concern. Reco-gnition of symptoms was declared by 24.4%, while 51.2% were uncertain. Preventive knowledge was affirmed by 43.8%. Intended bystander responses most commonly included contacting friends (44.0%), relatives (42.9%), venue security (41.7%), the police (38.5%), or ambulance services (36.3%); 2.5% would not intervene. Younger age was associated with higher odds of reporting suspicion (18-29 years: aOR = 3.76; 95% CI: 1.58-8.99; 30-39 years: aOR = 3.49; 95% CI: 1.44-8.46; 40-49 years: aOR = 3.30; 95% CI: 1.34-8.13; reference ≥ 60). Female sex predicted greater concern (aOR = 2.81; 95% CI: 1.91-4.15) and higher preventive knowledge (aOR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.29-2.18). Higher education was associated with better recognition of symptoms (aOR = 2.84; 95% CI: 1.10-7.36).

Suspicion of spiking is relatively common, while confidence in recognizing symptoms remains low, supporting the need for structured prevention and trauma-informed response pathways.