Rapid Assessment and Response (RAR) Survey
The Jamaican Rapid Assessment Survey includes parish by parish data on drug use patterns related to education levels, gender, employment status, sources of supply and consequences of drug use. This methodology meets the need to quickly and inexpensively gather information that is otherwise not available or likely to be obtained because of resource or other constraints. Findings from such surveys have strengthened local response, informed longer term studies and provide a credible basis on which to measure interventions.
The Westmoreland RAR Survey (2010) is a community-based survey of the 91, 9826 persons ranging from 10-59 years old who reside in the parish. Ninety two persons (92) representing 0.1% of the population were surveyed. The sample was stratified for age and gender. The thirty three point questionnaire was administered by interviewers. Response rate was 100%.
Drug Use and Abuse in Westmoreland-Jamaica
Gender: Male 42% Female 58%. Prevalence: Age of initiation compared to age of start of frequent use Reasons for drug use Response: Government should put warning labels on alcoholic products (87%), ban advertising in media (48%), ban sponsorship of sporting/cultural events (32%).
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Highlights Alcohol is the most abused drug in Westmoreland.
76% consumed alcohol to feel good and relax. 4% use inhalants to get high. 4% of those who use drugs do so to forget worries. 22% shared medications with relatives and friends. 87% want warning labels on alcoholic beverages. Majority of them were aware of the dangers of alcohol use. 3% have had unprotected sex under the influence of alcohol while 1% have had unprotected sex under the influence of other drugs.
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