Assessment of the level and pattern of substance abuse among children and young persons in Nairobi

Abstract

Introduction: The non-medical use of drugs is increasingly seen as a major social problem with physical and emotional implications amongst the young people all over the world (WHO 1998; UNDCP, 1992; UN 1988). Several studies have been done to examine the characteristics, magnitude and nature of the substance use and abuse. However, the precise physical, psychological and social effects of drug abuse among children and the young persons in Kenya have not been adequately addressed. Objectives: This study therefore aimed at establishing the pattern and level of severity of the social, physical and emotional implications of substance abuse among children and the young persons in Nairobi.