Abstract

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the knowledge level of young patients (aged between 15-25) with substance dependency about sexually transmitted disease (STD) and family planning (FP) and organized an education in order to inform them and correct their knowledge, if inappropriate and measured the efficacy of this education. Method: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was performed between 1 March 2010 and 31 March 2010. A total of 42 patients either hospitalized or outpatient, diagnosed with substance dependency according to DSM-IV were included in the study at Akdeniz University Alcohol and Substance Dependency Research and Treatment Center (AMBAUM). A standardized education on STD and FP was given to these young patients and a questionnaire consisting of 20 questions was performed before and after the education. Results: After a standardized education on STD and FP, number of correct answers increased for all questions and this reached to statistical significance for 15 of 20 questions (75%). When total scores were considered, the mean total score of the former test was 11.28±2.52 and the mean total score of the latter test was 16.85±2.20. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, young patients with substance dependency have inadequate knowledge about STD and FP, and education programme significantly increases the level of knowledge. It seems reasonable to include an education about STD and FP to alcohol and substance dependency rehabilitation programmes.

Key words: Substance dependency, sexually transmitted disease, family planning