Publications

Psychoactive substance use is a significant social issue in developing countries likeUganda, impacting academic, social, psychological, economic, and physiologicaldevelopment. A study was conducted at Kampala International University (KIU)'s westerncampus to determine the prevalence and factors associated with substance use amongundergraduate students. A cross-sectional design was used, with 160 respondents, 121 ofwhom were male. The majority were aged 21-24 years, with a lifetime prevalence of 28.1%.Alcohol was the most commonly used substance, followed by cigarettes (18.3%). The studyfound that gender, age, marital status, upkeep, and year of study were statisticallysignificant factors associated with substance use among KIU students. The study highlightsthe need for education and awareness campaigns regarding the dangers of substance use,especially among male students, to address this issue and improve the overall well-being ofstudents. The study underscores the importance of addressing the issue of substanceabuse in universities and promoting responsible behavior among students