Perception toward substance use and misuse among young people in Vietnam

Background: Although Vietnam has implemented policies aimed to reduce substance misuse among young people, this group has still consistently reported the high prevalence of substance misuse. This study was conducted to explore the perception regarding substance use and misuse among Vietnamese adolescents and youths and identify associated factors. Methods: Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey in five provinces: Hanoi, Cao Bang, Kon Turn, Binh Thuan, and Dong Thap. The structured questionnaire included: sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, living areas, occupation), the perception about tobacco, alcohol, and other substances misuse. Tobit regression models were employed to find associated factors with the perception about substance use. Results: In a total of 1200 youths, nearly 30% believed passive smoking was not harmful for health, nearly 40% agreed to drink alcohol if being invited. Of note, approximately 34% did not think that using drug 1-2 times could cause addiction. Those were females, lived in the rural, older people tended to perceive more correctly about smoking/alcohol use in comparison with male, urban, younger counterparts. Conclusions: The study indicated the popularity of misconceptions regarding substance misuse among the youths in Vietnam. Males, those living in urban and young individuals tended to have poorer perceptions toward substance use. Contextualized approaches which involved cultural perspectives and social expectations should be considered.