English

Abstract

This study investigates drug abuse and its impact on Bangladesh and aims to identify the family-related and social reasons for being addicted, and the causes and effects of drug abuse. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in assessing the causes and consequence of its impact in Bangladesh using purposeful sampling for sample collection, involving recent graduates from different public and private university, civil servants, and civil society members. Findings revealed that drug abuse is multidimensional, and should be addressed accordingly. Many of the addicts view the rehabilitation procedures and costs introduced by the Narcotics Department as high and cumbersome. Many people, especially the youths are eager to get rid of drugs, but unfortunately can hardly find any way out. The addicts, while talking with the investigators, sought treatment to wipe out the negative effects of the drugs. Thus, the government should involve both the family and society which are the two most effective institutions to prevent drug addiction within the drug policy covering both the preventive and curative issues. These two institutions side by side with the government and nongovernmental efforts can play vital role in drug demand reduction, and preventing drug abuse in the country. Also, urgent major policy and institutional reforms involving all the concerned bodies is needed for effective response to combat drug abuse in the country. Key words: Drug abuse, narcotics control, elevated risk, impact, Bangladesh.