IPS YOUNG PSYCHIATRISTS AWARD ABSTRACTS

Prevalence of substance use and associated factors among medical students in Ahmedabad: A cross sectional observational study Ashish Yadav Gujarat Institute of Mental Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India Background: Substance use among medical students is a growing public health concern. Academic stress, peer influence, and easy accessibility contribute to increased risk. However, regional data, particularly from Gujarat, are scarce. This study investigates the prevalence and factors associated with substance use among medical students in Ahmedabad. Aim: To assess the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with substance use among medical students in Ahmedabad. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 314 participants. Data were collected using a sociodemographic proforma and the ASSIST questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze the data. Results: Tobacco (53.5%) and alcohol (33.1%) were the most commonly used substances, followed by cannabis (4.8%). Severe tobacco and alcohol use was predominantly observed among postgraduates and older students (≥25 years). Hostel residents reported significantly higher substance use. Younger students (