Horrendous Situation of Substance Abuse in Pakistan: A Bird’s Eye View on Socio-Demographics

Abstract

Substance abuse in Pakistan is one of the major causes for concern that affects almost all segments of society. It has not only devastating effects on the physical and psychological wellbeing but also has the adverse effects on manpower and economic growth of the country. It is commonly believed that, in Pakistan, among the major public, social and medical issues of the twentieth century, drug abuse ranks as one of the most devastating and costly [1,2]. Drug abuse, and particularly heroin addiction, has been spreading at a fast rate since the late 70s. Pakistan has extensively been exposed to illegal opium, trafficking and abuse. However, the magnitude, degree and severity of the dilemma vary over time. [3] Pakistan is a country with a large population of youth, drug use has been found more common among those who are under the age group 15-39. Cannabis use seems to be highest among 30 to 34 year old individuals and heroin use seems to be highest among 35 to 39 year olds. Furthermore, average age of initiation of drug use is 18 years and more prevalent among the lower and lower middle classes of the society [4].