Recent Pattern of Substance Use Among Patients with Substance Use Disorders in a Rehabilitation and Treatment Centre for Addiction in Dubai
BACKGROUND:
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a major contributor to global disease burden, premature mortality, and social disruption. While international data demonstrate shifting trends in polysubstance use, evidence from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains limited, particularly among individuals engaged in specialized treatment.
OBJECTIVE:
To describe the epidemiological profile, initiation factors, and current patterns of psychoactive substance use among patients diagnosed with SUDs in a rehabilitation and treatment facility in Dubai.
METHODS:
A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 103 patients meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for SUDs who attended Erada Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation between May and August 2021. Data were collected using structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires addressing sociodemographic characteristics, substance use history, routes of administration, frequency of use, and psychosocial comorbidities. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed using SPSS v27.
RESULTS:
The mean age at first substance exposure was 16.4 years (SD = 3.7). Curiosity (67%), peer or familial influence (28.2%), and hedonic motivation (21.4%) were primary initiating factors. Methamphetamine (50.5%), opioids (48%), and amphetamines (45.6%) were the most commonly reported substances. Intravenous administration predominated (68.9%), and 74% reported daily use. Frequent comorbidities included legal problems (63.7%), financial instability (50%), bereavement (41.2%), and exposure to violence (38.2%). Correlation analyses indicated distinct co-use clusters involving opioids, stimulants, and prescription medications.
CONCLUSION:
The study reveals early onset, high frequency polysubstance use with considerable health and psychosocial risks. Findings highlight the urgent need for culturally tailored evidencebased interventions and regional surveillance to guide treatment and public health strategies in the UAE.
