Novel psychoactive substances: use and knowledge among adolescents and young adults in urban and rural areas

In this study, we investigated knowledge and use of NPS in a sample of Italian youth in urban and rural areas. MethodsBetween December 2012 and October 2013, we administered a questionnaire to a sample of 3011 healthy subjects (44.7% men; 55.3% women), aged between 16 and 24 years and recruited in urban, intermediate and rural areas of Italy. ResultsOf the global sample, 53.3% declared to have some knowledge on NPS, with a higher knowledge in urban areas. Mephedrone (26%), desomorphine (22.6%) and methamphetamine (21.7%) were the most commonly known drugs. NPS use was reported by 4.7% of the sample, without significant differences between urban and rural areas; mephedrone (3.3%), synthetic cannabinoids (1.2%) and Salvia divinorum (0.3%) consumption has been identified. NPS use was also predictive of binge‐drinking behaviours (χ2(4) = 929.58, p < .001). DiscussionUrban areas may represent a focal point for preventive strategies, given the presence of higher levels of NPS knowledge. Moreover, the association between binge‐drinking habits and NPS use was really strong. This issue should not be underestimated because of its medical, psychopathological and social consequences. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Source: Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Special Issue on Novel Psychoactive Substances Source Type: research