An Assessment of the Prevalence and Determinates of Substance Abuse Among Youths (19-35 Years) in Zone #4 Community Pleebo City, Maryland County, Liberia

This study assessed the prevalence, determinants, and effects of substance abuse among youths aged 19–35 years in Zone #4 Community, Pleebo City, Maryland County, Liberia. The study is significant as it provides evidence-based data on substance use patterns to inform policymakers, health practitioners, and community leaders in designing effective prevention and intervention strategies. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. The study population consisted of 534 youths, from which 223 respondents were selected using Epi Info version 7.2.6.0 at a 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error. Systematic random sampling was used, and data were collected using structured questionnaires. Analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel and presented using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed a very high prevalence of substance use among respondents, with marijuana (31%), alcohol (29%), and cigarettes/tobacco (28%) being the most commonly used substances. Most respondents (83%) reported daily use, and 78% used substances in peer groups. The majority were male (85%), aged 25–30 years (41%), single (91%), unemployed (61%), and had completed senior secondary education (39%). Key determinants of substance abuse included peer pressure (43%), stress or depression (33%), family influence (93% reported family members who use substances), easy accessibility (67%), and unemployment or poverty (89%). The effects of substance abuse were wide-ranging, including physical health issues such as fatigue (60%), mental health challenges including stress (41%), depression (30%), and anxiety (29%), as well as social consequences such as isolation (38%) and family conflict (27%). Behavioral impacts included aggression (55%), risky decision-making (19%), and reduced productivity (45%). In conclusion, substance abuse among youths in the study area is highly prevalent and driven by social, economic, and environmental factors, leading to significant health and social consequences. The study recommends community-based awareness programs, youth empowerment initiatives, improved access to counseling and rehabilitation services, and stricter regulation of substance availability.