Substance abuse among new patients attending main government hospitals in Malaysia from 2018-2021: A comparison between before and during COVID-19 pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Substance abuse admission to health facilities following the pandemic is often met with challenges. COVID-19 is causing an insurmountable psychosocial impact on the whole of mankind. Marginalized communities, particularly those with substance use disorders (SUDs), are also likely to suffer from greater psychosocial burden.

Objectives

This study sought to evaluate substance abuse trends before and during the pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients attending selected government hospitals in Malaysia. Data from the year 2018 to 2021 was utilized.

Results

A total of 9,606 patients consisting of 7881 males and 1725 females were identified. Most of the patients involved with substance abuse from 2018 to 2021 were males, aged

SUBMITTER: Muhamad NA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11500913 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature