Drug addicts profile and associated factors in a southern Brazilian population

Abstract

To investigate the drug addicts profile and associated factors in two southern Brazilian population. Material and methods: Data regarding sociodemographic characteristics, drug use and oral conditions were collected from 398 males admitted in two rehab hospitals, using a structured questionnaire and oral examination. Results: The mean age of the participants was 35 (± 9.6). The majority were white (63.6%), single (75.9%), employed (61.3%), had low schooling (68.6%) and received more than one Brazilian minimum wage (57.7%). The mean number of untreated decayed teeth was 4.6 (± 4.0), missing teeth, 4.3 (± 5.5) and filled teeth, 2.5 (± 3.1). The mean DMFT score was 11.4 (± 6.8). The most prevalent drugs consumed were tobacco (83.2%) followed by crack (81.2%) and alcohol (72.9%). Conclusion: The sociodemographic profile showed a population of young adults predominantly white, with low schooling, employed with reasonable income, and multi-drug users. Occurrence of decayed teeth and tooth loss was prevalent among them, reflecting on a precarious oral health.