Prevalence of substance use and quality of life among support personnel in a tertiary care hospital in Bangkok

Abstract

Background: Substance use has become increasingly widespread, reaching into various sectors, including the healthcare system. This affects work performance, increases the risk of operational errors, and consequently impacts the credibility and image of the organization.

Objectives: This research aimed to study the prevalence of substance use, factors related to substance use, and quality of life among support personnel working in a tertiary care hospital in Bangkok

Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional descriptive study and collected data from 250 support staff working in a tertiary care hospital in Bangkok from December 2024 to April 2025. Data were collected through individual interviews using structured questionnaires, including demographic information, the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief – Thai version. In addition, urine toxicology testing was conducted to detect the presence of cannabis, methamphetamine, and morphine. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including the chi-square test and logistic regression.

Results: Among 250 support staff, the prevalence of substance use at least once in a lifetime was 94.0% and 70.8% in the past three months. The five most commonly used substances in the past three months were alcohol (66.0%), tobacco (27.6%), kratom leaf decoction mixtures (5.6%), kratom leaves (3.6%), and cannabis (1.2%). Most participants were classified as having a low risk level of substance use. However, tobacco were associated with a moderate risk level (55.2%). Gender, age, and department were significantly associated with the most commonly used substances, with being male and of younger age found to be the most influential factors associated with substance use and greater severity. Additionally, most participants reported a moderate level of quality of life (51.6%).

Conclusion: The majority of support staff were found to have a moderate quality of life and reported having used at least one type of substance in their lifetime, with the most commonly used substances being legal products. Therefore, prioritizing health promotion programs that improve quality of life and address risk factors related to substance use is essential.