Prevalence Study: Nationwide Drug Abuse and Associated Factors Study in Bangladesh

RMCL, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Medical University, conducted one of the largest nationwide drug use studies in Bangladesh for the Department of Narcotics Control under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The study, titled “Estimation of the Number and Category of Persons Abusing Drugs and Associated Factors: A Nationwide Study in Bangladesh,” generated critical national evidence on the prevalence, patterns, categories, and contributing factors associated with drug use across the country. The assignment aimed to support evidence-based policy formulation, strategic planning, and national response strengthening for drug prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and law enforcement interventions in Bangladesh. The study covered diverse demographic and geographic populations across urban, rural, and high-risk settings to assess the scale and complexity of substance use in the country.

• Nationwide survey design and methodological framework development;
• Sampling strategy and field implementation planning;
• Development of digital data collection systems and quality assurance protocols;
• Large-scale field coordination and supervision;
• Data management, statistical analysis, and prevalence estimation;
• Qualitative and quantitative evidence generation;
• Stakeholder consultation and dissemination support.

• Estimated prevalence of drug use in Bangladesh;
• Categories and patterns of substance use;
• Geographic and demographic distribution of drug use;
• Initiation pathways and behavioral risk factors;
• Social, economic, and mental health-related contributing factors;
• Access to treatment, rehabilitation, and support services;
• Emerging trends and vulnerabilities among high-risk populations.

The findings created significant national impact by strengthening the evidence base for drug control and public health policy decisions in Bangladesh. The study provided strategic insights to support national drug demand reduction programs, rehabilitation planning, harm reduction strategies, youth-focused prevention initiatives, and institutional coordination among government and development partners. Using technology-enabled field operations, digital survey systems, and advanced analytical approaches, RMCL managed complex nationwide data collection activities involving large multidisciplinary teams across multiple districts and vulnerable settings. The assignment demonstrated RMCL’s expertise in large-scale national surveys, epidemiological assessments, public health analytics, and evidence-informed policy support. This landmark study contributes to strengthening Bangladesh’s national response to substance use through data-driven planning, strategic resource allocation, and long-term policy and programmatic interventions aimed at improving public health, social protection, and community resilience.