The aim of this research was to investigate the consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs by students of health services from a private university in Curitiba, the state capital of Paraná, Brazil. The sample was composed of 538 students between 18 and 54 years old, taking major degrees in Physical Education, Physiotherapy, Nutrition and Psychology. An anonymous self-completed questionnaire has been used to collect socio-demographic data and to identify patterns of non-medical use of psychoactive drugs, as well as getting information about the history of use of these substances. The results have shown an elevated consumption of alcohol and tobacco, mostly from Physical Education and Psychology majors, which have also stood out as consumers of others substances. An elevated consumption of anabolic steroids by the students of Physical Education and a high consumption of amphetamines in Nutrition and Physiotherapy majors was detected. Concerning the history of consumption, friends and acquaintances have been pointed out as the main inductors for these kinds of substances and as regular company when consuming the drugs, recreation and pleasure have been highlighted as the motives for using the drugs for the first time, and breaking up routines, to enjoy the effects and to reduce anxiety/stress are highlighted as motives to maintain consumption. Around 30% of the students have used one or more substances before attending university.
Drug use; university students; risks factors
