Factors Associated with Methamphetamine Use Among Privates in Uttaradit Province

Abstract

This cross-sectional research aimed to study the prevalence and factors associated with drug use among privates, and to develop care guidelines for privates with substance use disorders during basic military training. Data were collected through questionnaires from privates in the 2nd batch of 2023 in Uttaradit province, and care guidelines were developed based on input from military training unit personnel. Data analysis was performed using logistic regression analysis at a 95% confidence level, while content analysis was used for developing care guidelines for privates with substance use disorders.

The findings revealed that personal factors, socio-economic factors, environmental factors, and psychological factors were significantly associated (p<0.05) with lifetime history of Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) use prior to conscription among privates in Uttaradit province. The recommended care guidelines for privates with substance use disorders emphasized close monitoring and observation, surveillance during withdrawal symptoms during training, organizing training sessions by drug addiction experts, and assignment of specialists to provide guidance and supervision for affected privates