Drug-use dynamics, treatment need and availability of treatment facility: evidence from selected bunks in Uyo metropolis in Nigeria

Introduction
Although it has not been empirically documented, bunk patrons are commonly perceived to engage in excessive and hazardous drug use. This study investigated drug use, treatment needs and availability of treatment facilities among patrons of bunks in Uyo.

Material and methods
The snowball technique was used to recruit 189 patrons from three bunks in the Uyo metropolis. Data were collected by the researchers and research assistants using a structured questionnaire consisting of widely-used measures of drug use, treatment needs and availability of facilities. Participant mean age was 26.54 years of age.

Results
A mean DUDIT (Drug Use Disorders Identification Test) score of 32.72 and a treatment need score of 11.05 was obtained. While 83.6% of respondents were polydrug users, 64.02% had injected drugs, 42.86% had used cocaine and 38.10% had psychiatric co-morbidity. Although 52% were motivated for treatment, only 11% were currently in counselling. There was a positive association detected between drug use and treatment needs (r = 0.32, p < 0.01). Male gender is associated with more drug use (r = –0.47, p < 0.01) and fewer treatment needs (r = 0.28, p < 0.05). Years of patronage is positively related to drug use and treatment needs.

Discussion
The findings were consistent with commonly-held perceptions regarding excessive and hazardous drug use in the bunks. This could be attributed to the availability of these drugs in an atmosphere devoid of apprehension about arrest by law enforcement agents.

Conclusions
We emphasised the need to provide affordable, accessible and evidence-based treatment as well as extending the healthcare system to include drug-use problems.