Substance Dependence in a Tribal District.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Retrospective study was carried out with an aim to understand the status of substance dependence in Adilabad which is a tribal district of Telangana region and to know the possible reasons behind it. Material and Methods: Records from September 2009 to August 2010 was collected and analysed from patients of RIMS Adilabad. Cases of single substance dependence or polysubstance dependence and associated disorders were included in the study. Parameters were incidence, socio-demographics, age, sex, polysubstance dependence, alcohol dependence, comorbidity, management of substance dependence and hospital stay. Results: A total of 157 patients included in the study. Significant (p<0.05) seasonal variations were observed. Villagers 57.32%, Hindus 92.36%, Muslims 6.37% with mean age of 37 years was observed. Female to male ratio was 0.051. 86% females were from tribal villages, chronic beedi smokers and all had family history. Polysubstance dependence (3.18%) included alcohol 100% and cannabis 2.55%. Chronic alcoholics 44.59%, moderate quantity in 76%, consciousness in 53%, handmade liquor in 18% and alcohol without food in 7.64% observed. Associated comorbidity seen in 70.70% cases. Death occurred in 3.18% cases. Ranitidine and ampicillin were mainly given. Mean hospital stay was 2.26 days. Conclusion: Productive age group and handmade liquor is common but polysubstance dependence is negligible. Comprehensive strategy involving education, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation programs are needed to fight against substance dependence in the region.