Asia Pacific Journal of Medical Toxicology

Factors Contributing to Drug Addiction and the Effectiveness of Multi-Sectoral Initiatives for Narcotics Prevention in Lashkargah, Helmand Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mohammad Din Khadim 1
Mohammad Wali Wali 2
Waris Badar 3
Abdul Halim Duranai 4
Abdul Manan Sultani 5
Hidayatullah Zhwand 4
Abdul Bari Habibi 4

1 Head of Research Center, Arakozia Institute of Higher Education, Helmand, Lashkargah, Afghanistan

2 Vice Chancellor of Arakozia Institute of Higher Education, Helmand, Lashkargah, Afghanistan

3 Memebr of Research Board, Arakozia Institute of Higher Education, Helmand, Lashkargah, Afghanistan

4 Lecturer, Medical Faculty, Arakozia Institute of Higher Education, Helmand, Lashkargah, Afghanistan

5 Head of Arakozia Institute of Higher Education, Helmand, Lashkargah, Afghanistan

https://doi.org/10.22038/apjmt.2026.88901.1516
Abstract
Background: Narcotic addiction poses a significant threat to individuals, families, and communities in Afghanistan, particularly in Lashkargah City, Helmand Province. This study examines the effectiveness of government-led initiatives in preventing narcotics use.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed. Behavioral observation reports and structured questionnaires from 70 addicts were supplemented with data from the Helmand Directorate of Public Health and a 100-bed rehabilitation facility. Quantitative data were analyzed using IBM SPSS, while qualitative findings strengthened the interpretation of results.
Results: The findings indicate that the primary causes of drug addiction in the area include peer pressure (85.2%) and the high accessibility of drugs (85%). Participants also reported several major consequences of addiction, such as social stigma (55.6%), economic strain (61.1%), and social isolation (70.4%). Additionally, 94.4% of respondents emphasized the importance of government-led and community-based initiatives, including awareness campaigns, rehabilitation services, and public participation. Moreover, 83.3% of respondents recognized educational institutions as key actors in prevention, noting that school-based awareness programs and prevention education can significantly reduce drug use among youth.
Conclusion: The study concludes that peer pressure and easy access to drugs are primary drivers of addiction in Lashkargah. It also highlights the critical contribution of government bodies, educational institutions, and community efforts as part of multi-sectoral approaches to narcotics prevention. Effective mitigation of drug use requires coordinated action and continued collaboration across these sectors.

Keywords

Substance-Related Disorders
Narcotics
Risk Factors
Government Programs
Social Impact
Helmand Province
Subjects
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Asia Pacific Journal of Medical Toxicology
Volume 15, Issue 1
Winter 2026
Pages 12-20

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