Family Factors Among Patients with Substance Use Disorder in Sulaimani City, Kurdistan: A Case-Control Study

Background:Substance abuse is a global health problem with profound impacts on individuals and society. Dysfunctional family dynamics are known to play a significant role in the development of substance use disorder (SUD).Aim:To explore the role of family factors, including family history and general family functioning, in the development of substance use disorder among patients in Sulaimani City, Kurdistan, Iraq.Methods:A quantitative case-control study was conducted from February 2023 to July 2023, involving 120 adults (60 patients with substance use disorder and 60 controls). The McMaster Family Assessment Device-General Functioning Scale (FAD-GF) was used to assess family functioning, and data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, family history of substance abuse, and factors related to substance use. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS-22.Results:The study found that 31.7% of the case group had a family history of substance abuse, compared to 10% in the control group. Unhealthy family functioning was significantly more prevalent in the case group (64.6%) than in the control group (15%). Methamphetamine (58%) was the most commonly used substance, followed by alcohol (28.3%) and heroin (13.3%).Conclusion:Family history of substance abuse and unhealthy family functioning are significant factors associated with substance use disorder in Sulaimani City. Involvement of families in treatment and prevention efforts is essential for better outcomes in substance abuse management.