Determination of risk factors influencing substance use among Turkish-origin immigrants in Germany

Background/aim: Increasing international migration poses unique challenges, especially regarding health outcomes and behaviors such as substance use. This study aims to identify risk factors influencing substance use among Turkish-origin immigrants in Germany. Materials and methods: Data were obtained from the STEPS survey conducted by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) in 2021 in Germany. A total of 1157 participants were selected through a quota sampling method. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and logistic regression utilizing IBM SPSS Statistics 21. Results: The study found a significant association between substance use and variables such as generation status, age, and sex. Third-generation immigrants showed a higher propensity for substance use compared to the first and second generations. Significant relationships were also observed between substance use and other risk behaviors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption. Conclusion: Substance use among Turkish-origin immigrants in Germany is influenced by generational status, with younger and third-generation individuals being at higher risk. Additionally, tobacco and alcohol use are strong predictors of substance use, highlighting the need for targeted interventions, especially for young migrants.