Perception of the problem of tobacco smoking and drug use among Kafr El-Sheikh University students, Egypt

Objective: This study aimed to assess perception of the problem of substance use among students of Kafr El-Sheikh University within a social context. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted using a cluster sampling technique from each faculty. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: The study included 2252 students. More than two-thirds of students strongly disagreed and about one-fifth disagreed with the intake of illicit drugs by other people. Most students agreed that it is impossible or very difficult to self-initiate drug use. Those perceiving easy/very easy self-initiation were 14.3% for cigarette smoking, 9.9% for analgesics and tranquilizers, 6.5% for hashish/bhang, and 5.9% for alcohol. Only 20.4% and 26.2% knew about HIV/AIDS hotline service and voluntary counseling and testing, respectively. Governmental drug use rehabilitation centers were known by 61.6% of participants. Tobacco smoking was admitted by 9.7% of students. Conclusions: Most students disagreed with intake of illicit drugs with limited rejection of smoking and hashish as well as the trying or occasional use of drugs. Knowledge about services for quitting drug use or HIV/AIDS infection counseling needs improvement. Campaigns against substance use should target university students.