Causative factors of increasing prescription drug abuse based on transcultural nursing theory

Prescription drugs abuse in society is becoming a serious problem in the world. This case is caused by a variety of factors both internal and external, especially cultural factors. Various efforts have been done to reduce this problem but have not showed optimal results. This research was conducted to analyze the factors related to drug abuse in the society based on transcultural nursing theory. This research was conducted in two villages in the South Kalimantan Province of Indonesia, using a correlational research design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 125 respondents suspected of abusing prescription drugs, were examined using a questionnaire. The sample selection using simple random sampling technique. Prescription drug abuse behavior was measured using a screening test CAGE-AID. The collected data was tested using a logistic regression test. Religious and philosophical factors (p = 0.035); kinship and social factors (p = 0.038); cultural and lifestyle factors (p = 0.038); political and legal factors (p = 0.031); and economic factors (p = 0.015) have a significant relationship with the behavior of drug abuse in the society. Meanwhile, technological factors (p = 0.092) and education (0.062) have no relationship with these behaviors. Easy access to drugs and the acceptance of this problem in the society have led to the higher cases of prescription drugs abuse. Counseling related to the use of prescription drugs as well as an increase in rehabilitation and religious programs need to be improved to prevent further abuse.