Uzoamaka Assumpta IZUCHUKWU

The study examined effects of drug abuse on the health status of undergraduates in university of Benin. Four research questions were raised; What is the prevalence of drug abuse among undergraduates at the University of Benin? What are the most commonly abused types of drugs among undergraduates at the University of Benin? How does drug abuse impact the physical and mental health status of undergraduates at the University of Benin? What factors contribute to drug abuse among undergraduates, and what interventions can be implemented to address the issue? The target population for this study includes 400 level undergraduate students in the department of Health safety and Environmental Education in faculty of Education University of Benin. The study made use of descriptive survey research design. The researcher constructed a questionnaire that was used to obtain responses from the respondents. The findings in the study revealed; A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that 62% of undergraduate students who used drugs in the University of Benin reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Research conducted by the University of Benin's Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology found that students who used drugs regularly showed significant impairment in cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. The study recommends that; There should be increased awareness campaigns and educational programs to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse, its effects on mental and physical health, and the importance of seeking help if they are struggling with addiction. There should be stricter penalties and punishments for students who are caught using or possessing drugs, in order to deter others from engaging in this behavior.