Public Health Aspects and Interventions for Substance Use Disorders in South Asia

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are one of the leading causes of morbidity, premature mortality, familial and social disruption, and loss of income worldwide. At least 2–9% of the population of South Asia suffers from a SUD. Given the evidence for an increase in some forms of SUD in South Asian countries, preventive approaches are also urgently required. SUDs are also strongly associated with both communicable and non-communicable diseases in South Asia. The public health approach (PHA) to substance use disorders is an evidence-based, person-centred, sustainable, and inclusive approach. It employs a variety of methods to prevent substance misuse, identify and treat SUDs early, and ensure that those with long-standing problems are rehabilitated. The PHA is not confined to specific interventions or treatments, but involves long-term planning, evaluation, and integration with primary care and public health measures for other diseases. Despite considerable barriers, South Asian countries have several strengths and resources that are conducive to the implementation of a PHA for substance use disorders. This chapter provides an overview of PHA and interventions for SUDs in South Asia from multiple perspectives.