Substance use among young people in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The use of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, khat, or drugs among young people is becoming a public health concern globally, with particularly high prevalence rates in low and middle-income settings, where socio-cultural and economic factors contribute to distinct challenges in addressing this problem. This review aimed to summarize the current literature on the prevalence of substance use among young people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and identify gaps in the current body of literature.

Methods

Seven databases and Google were searched for studies reporting on substance use prevalence among young people (aged 10-24 years) in SSA, published between January 2010 and May 2024. Observational studies were included, assessed for methodological quality, and checked fo

SUBMITTER: Ebrahim J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11422104 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature