Psychosocial Determinants of Substance Use Disorders in a Resource-Limited Context: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study in Yaounde, Cameroon

Introduction: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a significant public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited countries. In Yaounde, Cameroon, data on the psychosocial determinants of SUDs remain insufficient, undermining the development of effective primary prevention policies. This study aimed to identify these determinants to improve public health strategies. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted over eight months in 2023 across three hospitals in Yaounde (General Hospital of Yaounde, Jamot Hospital in Yaoundé, and the University Teaching Hospital of Yaounde). Participants aged 13 years and above who consented to participate and were diagnosed with SUD were enrolled. Data on sociodemographic profiles and other psychosocial determinants were collected using a questionnaire. Associations between the identified determinants and SUDs were analyzed using logistic regression (p Results: 200 participants were included; 77% were male, aged 20 - 30 years, predominantly students (60%), and unmarried (95%). Alcohol and tramadol were the most commonly used substances. Reasons for consumption were the influence of peers (90%) and the need for relaxation (85.5%). SUDs were also significantly associated with academic failure (p = 0.044), antisocial traits (23%), and a history of psychological disorders. Conclusion: This study highlights the relationship between psychosocial determinants and SUDs in Yaounde, Cameroon. This underlines the need for targeted and tailored policies to restrict access to psychoactive substances and provide support for vulnerable populations.