PATTERNS, INFLUENCING FACTORS, AND PREVALENCE OF DRUG USE AMONG ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE CALILONGUE NEIGHBORHOOD, UCUMA MUNICIPALITY, HUAMBO

Abstract

The present study examined consumption habits, influencing factors, and the frequency of substance use, particularly alcohol, among adolescents and young people in the Calilongue Neighborhood, Ucuma Municipality, Huambo Province, Angola. The study employed a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory methodology with a sample of 308 individuals, of whom 198 were male and 110 were female, aged between 13 and 40 years, with an average age of 18. Results showed that 55% of respondents used some type of drug, with a predominance among males. Alcohol was the most commonly used substance (44%), followed by cigarettes (28%), diazepam (18%), liamba (6%), and other drugs (4%). It was noted that the age of initiation mostly occurred between 16 and 18 years, with the most common places for experimentation being the street with friends (53%) and parties (26%). Peer influence was the most important motivating factor for consumption (67%), while family impact was less relevant (9%). The findings reveal an alarming pattern of daily or almost daily use, emphasizing the risk of addiction, physical and mental health issues, educational impairment, and social relationship problems. The results highlight the importance of government strategies and educational initiatives focused on preventing drug use among adolescents, prioritizing education, information, strengthening family ties, and community activities.