Investigating key factors influencing substance abuse among undergraduate medical students at Saint Paul's hospital millennium medical college, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a qualitative approach.

backgroundSubstance abuse is prevalent among college students, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. Few studies have explored the factors influencing substance abuse among medical students, and it has been particularly neglected in the Ethiopian context. This study aims to fill this gap through a qualitative exploration, providing insights crucial for intervention and treatment strategies.

objectivesThis study aimed to understand the primary influencers contributing to substance abuse among undergraduate medical students at Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College.

methodsAn exploratory qualitative study design was employed from March 2023 to May 2023 at Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College. In-depth interviews were conducted with seven substance-abusing students selected via snowball sampling. The interviews explored their experiences, challenges, and perceptions. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify and categorize emergent themes.

resultsThe study found that khat, alcohol, and cigarettes were perceived as the most commonly abused substances among medical students. Psychosocial and economic factors, the medical school environment, and challenges in cessation were identified as significant influencers of substance abuse. These findings were organized into four main themes and six subthemes derived from the thematic analysis.

conclusionPsychosocial, economic factors, and being medical students, contribute to substance abuse. The study recommends college interventions such as strengthening support groups and campus activities. Policy changes enforcing stricter substance control by the government are also suggested to mitigate substance abuse among medical students.