Prevalence of Substance Use and Demographic Characteristics in Iranian Soldiers Referred to a Military Hospital in 2018

Abstract

Background: Substance use has been a challenge for humanity since ancient times. Given the problems associated with substance use and the challenges of its treatment, it is essential to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of this issue in various populations, especially in work environments. Military organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, preventing substance use, and reducing harm among soldiers. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of substance use (specifically cannabis, morphine, and amphetamine) and the demographic characteristics of soldiers hospitalized in a military hospital. Methods: A total of 380 Iranian soldiers who were admitted to a military hospital with various diagnoses in 2018 were selected as the research sample. Urine samples from the soldiers were analyzed using kits for morphine, amphetamine, and cannabis, and demographic questionnaires were completed. Results: The prevalence of substance use among soldiers who were admitted to the military hospital was observed to be 18%, with cannabis, morphine, and amphetamine use at 10%, 6%, and 2%, respectively. The majority of the soldiers studied were unmarried, had no university education, were unemployed, and had low incomes. Conclusions: The prevalence of substance use is high among soldiers who are unmarried, lack a university education, are unemployed, and have low incomes.