Survey on drug use and vulnerabilities among students from public schools participating in the school health program / ​​health and prevention in schools in the city of Florianópolis

Abstract

This research investigated the use of alcohol and other drugs and related vulnerabilities among students from nine public schools participating in Projeto Saúde e Prevenção na Escola (SPE -Health and Prevention at School Project) and in Programa Saúde na Escola (PSE -Health at School Program) in the city of Florianópolis (Southern Brazil). The sample comprises 789 students ranging from the 7th grade (Elementary School) to the 3rd grade (High School). Main results: Tobacco was used by 20.1% of the students, 7% reported marijuana use, 1.3% used cocaine and 0.6% used crack at least once. Alcohol was the most frequently used drug: 30.1% of all students reported binge drinking. Students who make use of alcohol and other drugs are in a vulnerable situation: they skip more classes, get involved in fights more often, are sexually more active and admittedly take risks regarding HIV infection. Family influence is relevant, both protecting from drug use and leading to practices.