Assessment of Substance Abuse Disorders and Associated Risk Factors: A Case of Selected Public Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Substance abuse among university students is an escalating concern due to its detrimental impact on individual health, academic performance, and societal well-being. This study investigated substance use disorders and associated risk factors among students in selected public universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to determine the prevalence of substance abuse, identify commonly used substances, assess the effects of substance use, and explore contributing risk factors. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting undergraduate students from four public universities in Nairobi County, including the University of Nairobi and the Technical University of Kenya. Data were collected from a sample of 360 students using a structured questionnaire that gathered demographic information, substance use patterns, perceived effects, and associated risk factors. Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze prevalence rates and usage patterns, while inferential statistics, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were applied to determine associations and predictors. Findings indicated a high prevalence of substance use, with 58.6% of students categorized as “intermediate risk” and 9.7% as “very high risk,” suggesting probable substance use disorder (SUD). Alcohol emerged as the most commonly abused substance (100%), followed by marijuana (79.2%). Tobacco use was low (3.6%), and no participants reported the use of cocaine or non-medically prescribed drugs. Substance use was significantly associated with negative academic, health, psychological, social, and legal consequences. Notably, 100% of respondents experienced academic and social challenges, while 85.3% reported mental health issues. Key risk factors for substance abuse included peer pressure (100%), stress and anxiety (96.4%), curiosity (96.9%), family-related challenges (95.3%), and the easy availability of substances (97.5%). A vast majority (99.2%) agreed that the university environment contributed to increased substance use risk, yet only 79.2% were aware of existing prevention programs, highlighting a gap in outreach and institutional engagement. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening campus-based prevention programs, expanding mental health support services, initiating peer education strategies, integrating substance use education into university curricula, enhancing awareness of available interventions, regulating access to substances around campuses, and formulating data-driven policies through continuous research and monitoring. The results emphasize the urgency of implementing coordinated, multi-sectoral strategies to address the complex issue of substance abuse in higher education institutions. Future research should examine longitudinal trends, evaluate the efficacy of interventions, investigate socioeconomic and digital influences, and explore gender-specific usage patterns. This study offers a critical foundation for informed policymaking and targeted interventions aimed at fostering healthier learning environments and promoting student well-being.