title: [Critical perspective of relatives and acquaintances regarding protective factors and the use of illicit drugs in Guayaquil, Equador].
abstract: The objective of this study was to determine the perspectives of drug users' relatives and acquaintances about protective factors for illicit drug use at a health center in Guayaquil. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study. Data collection was performed through interviews using a questionnaire. Interviews were performed with 100 people who knew a drug user (relative or friend). The results showed that the following personal and family factors could be protective: 97% having solid moral principles, 96% express their feelings, 98% dedicate time for the family, and 95 % have a supportive relationship with one of the parents. Regarding the community, all participants (100%) agree there is a need for a government that understands this issue, 99% refer there should be honest policemen, and 99% state the need for programs that protect people from drug use and institutions that work with prevention. Family, community and personal decisions have effects on becoming involved, hence the need to reinforce protective factors and thus reduce the number of addicted individuals.
authors.affiliation: Escuela de Enfermería de Guayaquil, Ecuador. rutoviedo@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Ruth Jakeline
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Oviedo Rodriguez
authors.forename: Bruna
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Brands
authors.forename: Edward
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Adlaf
authors.forename: Norman
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Gierbrecht
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Simich
authors.forename: Maria da Gloria Miotto
authors.initials: Mda G
authors.lastname: Wright
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004484:Ecuador; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D033062:Friends; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs; D008297:Male; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014504:Urban Health; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D013287:Illicit Drugs