Prevalence of Risky Behaviors and Relationship of Risky Behaviors with Substance Use Among University Students

WOS: 000424193300003Objective: This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of risky behaviors, frequently encountered in young adulthood, and the relationship between such behaviors and substance use in the university population. Method: This cross sectional, web-based, self-report study was carried out in a state university with 53,003 students. The power analysis was conducted according to the lowest prevalence (0.01%-0.6%) of substance use in universities in Turkey. A sample of 3,184 people was found to be sufficient for the research. The data of 2,973 individuals who completed the Addiction Profile Index was evaluated. Frequency tests, Pearson chi-square and logistic regression were used in the statistical analysis. Results: As participants 1,629 (54.8%) females and 1,344 (45.2%) males were included in the study. Suicidal plans or attempts and self-harming behaviors were significantly more prevalent among female students; carrying a weapon (penknife/knife/gun), engaging in physical fights, sustaining injuries in physical fights, early sexual relation experiences, condom usage, cigarette, alcohol, energy drink and substance consumption were significantly more prevalent among male students (p