Conceptual Generalities about Addictions and the Prevention of DrugAbuses

Introduction: Substance use represents a public health problem that has increased considerably in the last years. Health institutions are scenarios that contribute to the identification of people at risk of entering the world of the addictions and, once they have done it, help them in the process of detoxification, rehabilitation and social reintegration. Objective: To describe the pathways of initiation, risk factors and consequences of drug use. Methods: Different databases were examined using keywords taken from the Health Sciences Descriptors. The terms used were drug, addictive behavior and prevention. Development: Theoretical aspects on the prevention of drug abuse, its main prototypes and effects are delved into. The importance of prevention as an action and effect of interventions designed to prevent or counteract the individual, social and environmental causes of drug abuse was pointed out. Conclusions: In the field of drug addiction prevention, studies devoted to delving into the risk factors associated with drug abuse have allowed a more effective approach for its treatment and reduction