Health Seeking Behaviors Among Drug Users in The Sunyani Municipality

ABSTRACT

Background: Drug use is a global public health issue and transcends cultural boundaries. Substance use and their accompanying disorders have consequences for people's mental, physical and environmental health. Drug addiction is a contributing factor to poor dental health among drug addicts. There is documented disability and comorbidity associated with drug use, nevertheless, majority of these people have never been treated and others don’t continue treatment when they start. This study therefore aims to explore the health seeking behaviours of drug users in the Sunyani Municipality Method: A descriptive study design was used employing a qualitative research approach, specifically, phenomenological study. In-depth interviews were conducted for a total of 23 participants including two Key Informants. The data collected was transcribed, coded and analyzed for the generation of themes with the aid of qualitative data analysis software “Nvivo version 12 pro”. Results: The common drugs being used in the municipality are cocaine, heroin, marijuana and tramadol. The drug users face diverse health challenges such as addiction, malaria, lungs and breathing complications, cardiovascular complications, skin complications, among others. They experience poor perceived quality of life and a low health status. The reported seeking health care from multiple sources and drug use in the Municipality was influenced by specific social and economic factors. Conclusion: Multiple sources of healthcare were used by drug users. Cost, lack of knowledge about condition and fear of arrest also served as barriers to proper healthcare. Education is needed among the drug users to improve their health seeking behaviours and access to formal healthcare.