PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG CRIMINAL PRISONERS IN PUL-E-CHARKHI JAIL

Abstract

Introduction: Drug abuse, including illicit substances, misuse of prescription medications, and, outside of Islamic contexts, alcohol consumption, frequently results in addiction, health complications, and criminal behaviors such as theft, violence, and drug-related offenses. This research aimed to calculate the prevalence and associated factors of drug abuse among incarcerated individuals in Pul-e-Charkhi Jail, located in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 254 inmates of the central detention facility, Pul-e-Charkhi Jail. Data collected through a structured questionnaire employing a mixed sampling technique (systematic random sampling and convenience sampling) from November 15 to November 30, 2024. Data analyzed by SPSS version 26.

Results: This study, conducted on 254 male inmates at Pul-e-Charkhi Jail, demonstrated a 30.7% prevalence of drug abuse, with the highest incidence (41.7%) observed among individuals aged 50–64 years. No statistically significant associations were found with age, marital status, or level of education. However, significant correlations were observed with prior criminal history (49.2% abuse rate, P = 0.000), associations with criminal collaborators (61.2%, P = 0.000), and participation in drug-using networks (96.4%, OR = 184.44, P = 0.000). Drug abuse was most prevalent among those convicted of sexual offenses and drug trafficking. Most users-initiated drug use between the ages of 11 and 20, consumed drugs daily, and preferred cannabis and smoking. Funding sources for drug use included employment (48.7%) and theft (44.9%). The analysis identified criminal networks, previous incarcerations, and associations with drug users as significant predictive factors.

Conclusion: The Study concluded that drug abuse among Pul-e-Charkhi inmates is predominantly influenced by criminal determinants, notably prior incarceration, peer influence, and drug-user networks, rather than demographic variables. Early initiation of cannabis use was common and was often financed through legitimate employment or illicit means. Consequently, targeted interventions aimed at disrupting criminal networks are imperative to reduce drug abuse within prisons.