Sociodemographic inequalities in substance use among young people in Vietnam

Background: Early substance use results in some physical and mental health problems and is a predictor of frequent use later in life. Youths have been recognized as a highly vulnerable population to substance use. However, research assessing the substance use and misuse in this population is constrained in Vietnam. This study aimed to explore the sociodemographic characteristics of substance use among young people in Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in five different provinces in Vietnam, specifically Hanoi, Cao Bang, Kon Tum, Binh Thuan, Dong Thap, in which 1200 participants, aged 16–30 answered questions about their substance use (alcohol, tobacco and drugs) in the last 30 days and sociodemographic characteristics. Logistic regression models were employed to examine the correlation between sociodemographic factors and substance use. Results: There were 46.2%, 37.3% and 9.9% respondents reported alcohol consumption, smoking and illicit drug use in the last 30 days, respectively. Females were less likely to use single (OR = 0.30; 95%CI = 0.22–0.42) or multiple substances (OR = 0.19; 95%CI = 0.14–0.27) in comparison with males. Those being farmer had a higher likelihood of using multiple substance (OR = 2.01; 95%CI = 1.25–3.24), while those being white-collar workers were more likely to use single substance (OR = 1.74; 95%CI = 1.13–2.66). People living in mountainous areas were more likely to use either single or multiple substances compared to those living in rural areas. Conclusion: This study showed a significantly high prevalence of substance use among Vietnamese youths. Establishing prevention programs targeting youths and adolescents would be essential to prevent the emergence of bigger issues. To be effective, these programs need to be tailored for different specific groups among young adults, especially for males, and those of lesser advantage in mountainous and rural areas.