Prevalence and Characteristics of Substance Use Among Chinese and South Asians in Canada

Abstract

This study examines Canadian Alcohol and Drug Use Monitoring Survey data to assess substance use prevalence among Chinese (n = 254), South Asians (n = 245), and Caucasians (n = 14,943). South Asians and Chinese reported less current drinking than Caucasians, and South Asians reported less current drinking than Chinese. South Asians and Chinese reported less cannabis use and any illicit drug use than Caucasians. Compared to Caucasians, Chinese reported less cigarette smoking and South Asians reported less use of any pain relievers. Additional research focusing on immigration and acculturation is warranted to further explore substance use patterns of South Asian and Chinese populations in Canada.