Changing trends of substance addiction in Saudi Arabia between 1993 and 2013

Abstract

Background: Prevalence rates of substance dependency in Saudi Arabia have risen over the last twenty years. Although there is substantial research on alcohol and substance abuse in the Arab region, only a few papers give detailed review of the rising concern Aim: The present study aimed at comparing data of admitted hospital cases between 1993 and 2013. It was expected that changes will be observed in substance abuse and dependence in hospital admissions between 1993 and 2013. It was also expected that these changes will be associated to certain demographics and frequency of admissions. Method: Records from a total of 2,048 admitted cases were obtained from the Al Amal Hospital of Dammam. Type of addiction, demographics, frequency of hospital admissions and number of substances abused were compared between 1993 and 2013. Findings: The data was subjected to quantitative analysis and findings showed significant differences in type of addiction and sociodemographics between 1993 and 2013. Conclusion: These changing trends suggest that there is a growing need to review data in order to implement new strategies, policies and interventions for positive outcomes in populations affected by substance addiction.