The Sunday Mail
Grace Kaerasora —
At least 1 300 of the 7 000 admissions recorded this year at the Harare Central Hospital’s Psychiatric unit were related to drug abuse.
The institution’s head of psychiatric division Dr Dixon Chibanda said most of the drug abuse cases were from Mbare, Highfield and Kambuzuma.
“Drug abuse is pervasive in Harare and it cuts across racial, social and cultural demographics.
“For instance, in the white community and the more affluent blacks, you are likely to come across cocaine, pethidine and prescription drugs like Ritalin, a drug that is used for the treatment of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder),” he said.
He said drug abuse was mostly prevalent among male youths aged between 17 and 28 years. Dr Chibanda attributed high intake of drugs to depression, peer pressure, anxiety and unemployment.
“The type of drugs commonly detected in patients are cannabis (mbanje), codeine related drugs in the form of cough mixtures such as bronclear as well as prescription drugs like pethidine, diazepam and stopayne. Young people are vulnerable and if there is no anti-drug education or campaign awareness, drug abuse tends to be higher,” he said.
“We’ve had cases of people who take drugs because they are facing social problems, some will be homeless and lack family care and support. Such cases are referred to a long term institution that deals with problems of that nature.
“In rare situations, some patients are taken for specialist treatment at institutions such as Halfway house in Southerton, Tariro halfway house in Glenview, Beatrice Farm and Inkomahuru in Masvingo.
“Those who abuse drugs and have criminal records are referred to Chikurubi psychiatry unit.”
Dr Chibanda said the institution has not recorded any drug related deaths. “Cases of death are related to diazepam, pethidine, and cocaine abuse; but this usually happens if one abuses a number of drugs.”
Dr Chibanda also noted that drug abuse is higher during festive seasons when many will be overly excitable. He said there is an increase in the number of cases from 15 percent in January to 20 percent due to public holidays.
Harare Hospital cares for 117 000 patients annually with a workforce of 3 300. Some of the major health problems treated at the institution are related to HIV/AIDS, malnutrition and chronic illnesses.
