Knowledge, Awareness, And Practices Among Persons Who Use Drugs (Pwuds) In The Community-Based Rehabilitation Program

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess the level of knowledge on illegal drugs and substance awareness on the negative effects of drug use, and practices of the Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs) who joined the community - based rehabilitation program in CY 2018-2019. The participants of the study were the 140 “tokhang responders” who voluntarily surrendered and recorded in the PNP and City Health Office of Valencia City for the screening and rehabilitation. Moreover, this covered the ­­­­­31 barangays of Valencia City, Bukidnon. The study utilized the descriptive-correlational and causal research design. Majority of the PWUDs are middle and young adults, male, with 5,000 and below income, and mostly reached high school level. The participants have high knowledge on the harmful effects of illegal drugs to the body. In contrast, they have moderate knowledge on damage to their health if used minimally. The drug increases pleasure to their lives. The participants are moderately aware on the negative effects of illegal drug use. The PWUDs who joined the community - based rehabilitation have primary care physicians since the program was monitored by the City Health Office. They have clear sense of themselves after the program. The least practiced activities are online support groups, no insurance, and active plans for lingering health problems. There is a significant relationship between the knowledge, awareness, and practices of the PWUDs. Knowledge is the single best predictor of practices of PWUDs. Keywords : illegal drugs, tokhang responders, harmful effects, online support groups, active plans