This can be defined as a maladaptive pattern of continued use of drug be it legal or illicit, despite knowledge of having a persistent social,occupational,psychological or physical problem that is caused by the use (or recurrent use) in situations in which it is physically hazardous.

It is so prevalent around the world that it is one of the leading causes of ill-health and death in the populace. Well-respected figures around the world have fallen victim to the point of death or yet to get over it e.g Whitney Houston, Majek Fashek.

News about these are surely not pleasing to the ears or sight. Some show no iota of ever been in it because they have overcome e.g Oprah Winfrey, Samuel Jackson, Eminem.
The common substances of abuse include alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, heroin, cannabis, tramadol, codeine, morphine, diazepam, turpentine, nail polish, gloss paints, oh yes! Gloss paints.(It is instructive to say that some of these substances are beneficial in moderate quantity e.g alcohol is cardioprotective;tramadol is a painkiller).
Many individuals get indocrinated obviously during adolescence due to peer pressure influence. Other luring factors are depression, loneliness, need to get off protracted problems, genetic factor(with social influences).



Effects of drug abuse cannot be overemphasized, ranging from addiction to criminal tendencies~burglary/armed robbery, rape, homicide. Others are automobile accidents, loss of man-hours from work, withdrawal syndrome.

Ways to curbing this social menace involve: continued enlightenement programmes all over media channels; closer parent-children interaction; stiffer penalties to serve as deterrrents; establishment of drug rehabilitation centres. Spread the news!

Dr Kunle Shokunbi

http://www.dammydudu.com/2015/07/health-drug-substance-abuse/