A Survey of the Use of Ecstasy Tablets in Students of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences Based on Health Belief Model

Use of ecstasy tablets has increased 70% worldwide and now its consumption is more than heroin and cocaine. Surveys show that students use ecstasy pills more than other groups. During recent years, the use ecstasy has increased in students. Thus, this study aimed to determine the practice of student of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences based on health belief model in 2011. This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 267 students of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected by a validated and reliable questionnaire consisting of 3 parts, which were demographic information, H.B.M variables, and practice. Finally, descriptive analysis, chi-square, t-test and Kruskal-Wallis were used to analyze data. The mean age of the participants was 20.95 ± 1.61, 39.3% of them were men and 90.6% were single. 22.1% of students have seen ecstasy pills and 2.2% of them have used these pills. The mean scores of H.B.M variables were, perceived susceptibility 72.75 ± 19.68, perceived severity 84/58 ± 16/96, perceived benefits 80.43 ± 23.49, and perceived barriers 81.65 ± 18.53. There were no significant differences between the H.B.M variables and sex (p > 0.05). Moreover, television was the most important source of information and most important tool for teaching students about Ecstasy. Considering the mean of H.B.M variables and the amount of use of ecstasy (2.2% of students) in this group, it seems that educational programs based on the Health Belief Model are effective in decreasing the use of ecstasy tablets.