Abstract:

Objectives: This research work aimed at assessing prevalence and pattern of drug use for enhancement of daily and sexual activities among commercial drivers in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Methodology: a descriptive cross-sectional study designed was utilized. A semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain data from 240 commercial drivers. Data obtained include socio-demographic variables, drug use for daily activity enhancement, the pattern of perceived sexual challenges, usage of the drug for sexual performance enhancement and willingness accept counselling. Data were analysed using Statistical Program for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 and a p-value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Result: Though 67.9% believe their activities can be enhanced only 57.1% do take any psychoactive substance. Prevalence of alcohol consumption was 55.8% and it is the most commonly abused substance to enhance their daily activity performance. Most common means of sexual performance enhancement was the use of herbal mixture (20.3%). Worry about sexual performance, daily activity enhancement, smoking, and alcoholism are predictors of sexual performance enhancing drug usage. A number of sexual partners, age and religion were not significant factors in the use of sexual performance enhancement drugs.

Conclusion: commercial drivers are one of the groups at risk of substance abuse in our society. There is a need for behavioural change communication for this group and create a more suitable environment for counselling on the sex related matters in the health facilities. The existing law prohibiting sales of a psychoactive substance in the motor parks should be enforced.

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