Socio-Demographic Factors Associated with Relapse in Drug and Substance Abuse Among Reformed Drug Users at Karuri Level 4 Hospital in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Relapse in drug and substance abuse remains a significant public health concern in Kiambu County, Kenya, despite the expansion of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) services. This study aimed to examine the influence of socio-demographic factors on relapse among patients attending the MAT clinic at Karuri Level 4 Hospital, Kiambu County.  A cross-sectional design was employed among reformed drug users enrolled in MAT. Socio-demographic variables, including age, gender, marital status, education level, employment status, and household composition, were analyzed in relation to relapse outcomes. Chi-square analysis revealed statistically significant associations between relapse and selected socio-demographic characteristics, notably age and gender. The findings indicate that younger patients and those with unstable livelihoods were more vulnerable to relapse (OR = 0.95, p = 0.012). Equally, Gender had a notable effect, with males having more than twice the odds of relapse compared to females (OR = 2.12, p = 0.012). Additionally, education level was protective, with higher education levels associated with a 26% reduction in the odds of relapse (OR = 0.74, p = 0.012), demonstrating the stabilizing effect of education on recovery. The study concludes that socio-demographic characteristics play a critical role in relapse among MAT clients. It recommends adopting demographic-responsive treatment approaches, including targeted follow-up for high-risk groups, integrating livelihood support, and strengthening social support mechanisms to achieve sustained recovery outcomes.