Current Perspectives on Substance Use Disorder in Bangladesh

The growing trend of substance abuse is a major public health concern plaguing Bangladesh. Apart from tobacco products, cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and opioids are widely abused in this country. Several familial, socio-cultural, and personal factors increase the risk of substance abuse. Various psychiatric conditions, including especially depression and anxiety, are frequently found as comorbidities in people who abuse substances. Moreover, they have physical comorbidities including sexually transmitted infections especially among persons who inject drugs. Both government and private facilities are available for the management of substance abuse, although there is a significant scarcity of and incoordination in services. A number of laws regulate the substance abuse scenario in Bangladesh including the most recent Mental Health Act and Narcotics Control Act. The Department of Narcotics Control is the major government body overseeing the whole situation. Additionally, non-government organizations also play vital roles in various aspects of substance-related issues. Still, there are many challenges in providing proper services for substance abuse. To deal with it effectively, good quality research, developing skilled and trained professionals, raising awareness, adequate healthcare facilities, integrated services, and inter-sectoral collaboration are critical. This chapter gives a contemporary and concise overview of substance abuse in Bangladesh.