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Saudi Toxicology Journal

Keywords

Saudi Arabia, Controlled drugs, Awareness, General population

Document Type

Research Article

Abstract

Background: This study examines public awareness in Saudi Arabia regarding con- trolled drug abuse and dependence. It aims to evaluate public knowledge of controlled drugs, their complications, legal considerations, and exposure to related campaign. The study also explored predictors of public awareness of controlled drug abuse and dependence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey utilized a random sampling technique to recruit 529 participants aged 18 or older across Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited via an online questionnaire distributed from January to February 2024, targeting diverse demographics (e.g., age, gender, region). The survey assessed knowledge of controlled drugs, their effects, and explored perceptions about campaigns. Informed consent was obtained online, ensuring anonymity and voluntary participation, with ethical approval from Umm Al-Qura University. Results: Only 52.4% of participants knew the term "controlled drugs", 33.3% un- derstood legal implications, and 29.1% knew where to seek help. Half (50.7%) viewed campaigns as inadequate. Females (30.2%) vs. males (13.8%) saw drug abuse as a community issue (χ2 = 13.361, p = 0.001). Familiarity correlated with side-effect knowledge (Cramer’s V=0.293, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Significant knowledge gaps and limited campaign exposure highlight the need for targeted education and ongoing evaluation to increase awareness in Saudi Arabia.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.70957/uqu.edu.sa/s.toxicology.s/stj.2025.2.10

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