TRAMADOL ABUSE AMONG THE YOUTH IN ABOABO, TAMALE

ABSTRACT

Tramadol abuse has emerged as a growing public health issue in Ghana, particularly among

young people and manual laborers. This study aims to assess the extent of tramadol abuse among

the youth of Aboabo in Tamale, exploring the factors that drive its abuse and the potential

consequences on health and productivity. A cross-sectional survey will be conducted using

structured questionnaires and interviews to gather data from the youth in the study area. The

research will examine their level of awareness regarding the effects of tramadol, the socio-

economic and occupational influences on its usage, and the associated risks. The findings will

help in understanding the scale of the problem, guiding public health interventions, and

informing policies to address tramadol abuse within this workforce.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT ………………………………………………………….….………………………. i

LIST OF TABLES…………………………………….……………….…………………………iv

CHAPTER ONE.............................................................................................................................1

INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................1

1.1: Background of study.........................................................................................................1

1.2: Literature review...............................................................................................................1

1.3: Statement of problem........................................................................................................3

1.4: Research questions...........................................................................................................3

1.5: Aim of study.....................................................................................................................3

1.6: Specific objective.............................................................................................................4

CHAPTER TWO............................................................................................................................5

METHODOLOGY......................................................................................................................5

2.1: Study Design.....................................................................................................................5

2.2: Study Area........................................................................................................................5

2.3: Study Population...............................................................................................................5

2.4: Sampling Strategy.............................................................................................................5

2.5: Data Collection.................................................................................................................6

2.6: Ethical Considerations......................................................................................................6

2.7: Timelines..........................................................................................................................6

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 2.8: Budget...............................................................................................................................7

CHAPTER THREE........................................................................................................................8

EXPECTED OUTCOME............................................................................................................8

REFERENCES................................................................................................................................9

iii
 LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1: Timeline for this study....................................................................................................4

Table 2.2: The budget for this study................................................................................................5

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 1. CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

11: Background of study

The misuse of pharmaceutical drugs has become a significant public health issue, particularly

among young people. One such drug that has gained widespread attention is tramadol, an opioid

analgesic primarily used for pain management (Alhassan, 2022). In recent years, the youth in

Tamale have increasingly abused tramadol due to its perceived ability to enhance energy levels,

reduce fatigue, and create a sense of euphoria (Thomford, et al., 2024). The easy availability of

the drug through both legal and illegal channels has contributed to its misuse, raising concerns

about its negative impact on individuals and society.

Tramadol abuse poses serious health risks, including addiction, seizures, respiratory problems,

and, in extreme cases, death. It also has psychological effects such as mood swings, anxiety, and

depression, which can affect an individual's ability to function effectively in daily life (Ane,

2023). Additionally, excessive use of the drug is associated with risky behaviors, including

involvement in crime, violence, and accidents (Danso & Anto, (2021)). The growing trend of

tramadol misuse among young people in Tamale highlights the urgent need for awareness,

regulation, and intervention to address this issue.

12: Literature review

Tramadol, a synthetic opioid analgesic, has become a substance of concern due to its increasing

misuse among young people (Alhassan, 2022). Originally developed for moderate to severe pain

relief, tramadol exerts its effect by binding to the brain’s opioid receptors and inhibiting the

reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine (Ane, 2023). Its availability without strict prescription

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controls in many low- and middle-income countries has contributed to its widespread misuse.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has flagged tramadol abuse as an emerging public health

issue, particularly among adolescents and young adults who often seek it for its euphoric effects,

increased energy, and delayed fatigue (Osei-Tutu, et al., 2024; Danso & Anto, (2021)).

Several studies across sub-Saharan Africa have reported a rise in non-medical tramadol

consumption, especially among youth (Thomford, et al., 2024; Saapiire, et al., 2021; Lasong, et

al., 2024). In Nigeria, for instance, tramadol has been identified as a commonly abused substance

among secondary school and university students, leading to academic decline and risky

behaviors (Ane, 2023). Similar trends have been observed in Ghana, where tramadol misuse has

been linked to mental health disorders, violence, and accidents. Researchers have emphasized

that the high unemployment rate, peer influence, and limited awareness of the drug’s risks

contribute significantly to this crisis (Fuseini, et al., 2019).

In Ghana, data from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and health institutions indicate that

tramadol abuse has spread across urban and peri-urban areas, with Northern Ghana witnessing

increasing cases (Danso & Anto, 2021; Osei-Tutu, et al., 2025). A study by the Narcotics Control

Commission showed that youth in low-income communities are particularly vulnerable due to

poor access to education and healthcare, coupled with the availability of the drug through

unauthorized vendors (Danso & Anto, (2021)). While tramadol was once perceived as a

performance enhancer among young laborers and commercial drivers, it has now gained traction

among students and unemployed youth seeking escape from socioeconomic hardship (Saapiire,

et al., 2021).

Despite growing awareness campaigns, there remains a significant gap in community-specific

studies, particularly in areas like Aboabo, Tamale. Most of the existing literature provides

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general statistics without focusing on the underlying social and psychological factors unique to

specific regions (Alhassan, 2022). This gap underscores the need for localized research to inform

targeted interventions. The current study seeks to address this need by exploring the patterns,

causes, and consequences of tramadol abuse among the youth in Aboabo, offering data that could

be critical for public health planning and policymaking.

13: Statement of problem

Substance abuse is a growing problem that affects individuals, families, and communities

(Fuseini, et al., 2019). Among the many substances being misused, tramadol has become one of

the most commonly abused drugs among the youth in Tamale. Many young people use the drug

under the false belief that it boosts strength and endurance, especially among laborers, motor

riders, and students (Lasong, et al., 2024). Peer influence, socio-economic challenges, and lack

of awareness about the dangers of tramadol contribute to its widespread use (Osei-Tutu, et al.,

2024). This study seeks to examine the harmful effects of tramadol abuse among the youth in

Tamale and highlight its impact on their well-being.

14: Research questions

i. What are the common factors contributing to tramadol abuse among the youth in Tamale?

ii. What are the physical and psychological effects of tramadol abuse on young people in

Tamale?

iii. How does tramadol abuse impact the social and economic lives of affected individuals

and their communities?

iv. What measures can be implemented to reduce tramadol abuse among the youth in

Tamale?

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15: Aim of study

The primary focus of this research is to explore the physical, psychological, and social

consequences of tramadol misuse among young people.

16: Specific objective

i. To identify the factors contributing to tramadol abuse among the youth in Tamale.

ii. To assess the physical, psychological, and social effects of tramadol abuse on young

people.

iii. To explore possible strategies and interventions for reducing tramadol abuse among the

youth in Tamale.

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 2. CHAPTER TWO

METHODOLOGY

21: Study Design

A cross-sectional study design will be employed using structured questionnaires.

22: Study Area

The study will be conducted in Aboabo, a suburb of Tamale, which is a commercial town in the

Northern region in Ghana.

23: Study Population

The study population will consist of young people in Aboabo - Tamale, particularly those aged

15 to 35, who are either current or former users of tramadol. Additionally, the study will include

healthcare professionals, community leaders, the youth and law enforcement officers who have

insights into tramadol abuse and its effects on the youth.

24: Sampling Strategy

24.1: Sample Size Determination

𝑛o =
2
Z p (p−1)
2
e

where:

𝑛o = Required sample size (for an infinite population)

𝑍= Z-score (standard normal deviate corresponding to the desired confidence level, e.g., 1.96

for 95% confidence)

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𝑝 = Estimated proportion of the population with the characteristic of interest (if unknown, 0.5 is

used as it gives the maximum sample size)

𝑒 = Margin of error (or precision, typically set at 0.05 or 5%)

24.2: Sampling Methods

25: Data Collection

A Systematically structured questionnaire will be used for the data collection in this study.

26: Ethical Considerations

Ethical approval will be sought from the appropriate review board, and informed consent will be

obtained from all participants.

27: Timelines

The timeline for all relevant activities related to this study is summarized in the table below;

Table 2.1: Timeline for this study

TASK TIMELINE

Conduct preliminary literature review 1 Week

Develop research objectives and methodology 1 Week

Develop and validate data collection tools (questionnaire) 1 Week

Data Collection 4 Weeks

Data Processing and Analysis 4 Weeks

Clean and organize collected data 1 Week

Perform statistical analysis 2 Weeks

Interpret and summarize findings 1 Week

Report Writing 5 Weeks

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 Thesis Review and Submission 4 Weeks

Thesis Defense and Final Submission 2 Weeks

28: Budget

The expenses for this study are summarized in the table below;

Table 2.2: The budget for this study

EXPENSE DESCRIPTION ESTIMATED

CATEGORY COST (GHS)

Proposal Development Printing, photocopying, and binding of proposal 100

documents

Data Collection Cost of transportation to field and refreshment to 200

participant where necessary

Questionnaire printing Printing 200 copies 70

Statistical software Software subscription/license (if needed) 150

(SPSS/Excel)

Miscellaneous and Unforeseen expenses 100

Contingency

Total Estimated 570.00 GHS

Budget

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 3. CHAPTER THREE

EXPECTED OUTCOME

The study is expected to reveal that tramadol abuse among the youth in Aboabo-Tamale is driven

by factors such as peer influence, economic hardships, and misconceptions about its effects. The

findings may show that prolonged use of tramadol leads to severe health complications,

including addiction, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes. Additionally, the study

anticipates uncovering the social consequences of tramadol misuse, such as increased crime

rates, unemployment, and strained family relationships.

For data analysis, both qualitative and quantitative techniques will be employed. Descriptive

statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean values, will be used to summarize survey

responses and demographic data. Inferential statistical tools such as chi-square tests and

regression analysis may be used to determine relationships between variables like frequency of

tramadol use and its associated health effects.

Thematic analysis will be applied to qualitative data obtained from the responses of the

respondents, allowing for the identification of common patterns and themes related to tramadol

abuse. Statistical software such as SPSS or Microsoft Excel may be used for data processing and

analysis. The results from this study are expected to provide valuable insights that can inform

policy recommendations, awareness campaigns, and intervention strategies to combat tramadol

abuse among the youth in Tamale.

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 REFERENCES

Alhassan, J. A. K., 2022. Here in Ghana hard work don’t deserve money”: The uncertainty and

precarity of youth who use tramadol.. SSM-Qualitative Research in Health 2, p. 100165.

Alhassan, J. A. K., 2022. Where is the pain? A qualitative analysis of Ghana’s opioid

(tramadol)‘crisis’ and youth perspectives. PLOS Global Public Health 2, no. 12, pp. 10-45.

Ane, M.-G., 2023. Tramadol control measures and supply for health-care services: findings from

Ghana and other West African countries. Drugs, Habits and Social Policy 24, no. 4, pp. 259-

269..

Danso, M. & Anto, F., (2021). Factors associated with tramadol abuse: A cross-sectional study

among commercial drivers and assistants in the Accra metropolitan area of Ghana. Drugs-Real

World Outcomes 8, no. 3 , pp. 337-347.

Fuseini, A.-G., Alhassan, A., Yakubu, H. Y. & Gilbert, N., 2019. Facilitators to the continuous

abuse of tramadol among the youth: A qualitative study in Northern Ghana. Nursing open, pp.

1388-1398.

Lasong, J., Salifu, Y. & Assani wa Mwenda Kakungu. , J. w. M. K., 2024. Prevalence and factors

associated with tramadol use among university students in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey..

BMC psychiatry 24, no. 1, p. 853.

Osei-Tutu, S. et al., 2024. Patterns and social factors associated with non-prescription use of

Tramadol: a cross-sectional study among youth in urban informal settlements in Ghana. Journal

of Health, Population and Nutrition 43, no. 1, p. 191.

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Osei-Tutu, S. et al., 2025. Lived Experiences of Nonmedical Use of Tramadol Among Urban

Slum-Dwelling Youth in Ghana: A Qualitative Study. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, pp. 1-10.

Saapiire, F., Namillah, G., Tany, V. & Abubakari, A., 2021. The insurgence of tramadol abuse

among the most active population in Jirapa municipality: a study to assess the magnitude of the

abuse and its contributory factors. Psychiatry journal Vol 3 no 2, pp. 69-83.

Thomford, N. E., Abraham, S. A., Badu, S. N. & Biney., R. . P., 2024. A consideration of

CYP2D6 genetic variations in the Ghanaian population as a potential ‘culprit’for the tramadol

‘abuse crisis. BMC Medical Genomics 17, no. 1, p. 28.

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