Knowledge of Signs, Symptoms and Complications of Using Ecstasy among Female High School Students in Tehran, Iran

Background: The increasing use of ecstasy among the young generation in our society has led to many adverse effects. This research was performed to assess the level of knowledge about ecstasy in high school students and some of its determining factors such as age, parents’ level of education, students’ educational condition, and the source of information. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 707 girls studying in high schools and pre-university centers in district 6 of Tehran were enrolled into the study by cluster random sampling. A questionnaire containing questions about students’ age, high school grade, parents’ level of education, failing in at least one course in the previous semester, the mean grade of the previous semester, source of information, and signs, symptoms and complications of using ecstasy was completed by the students. Chi square test was used to analyze the data. Results: In this study 161 (22.2%) of the students achieved 75% or more of the knowledge score and the majority, which were 374 students (52.9%), did not answer at least half of the questions correctly. High school grade, parents’ level of education, failing in at least one course and source of information were significantly correlated to the level of knowledge. Conclusion: It is suggested that due to the low knowledge of high school students, more information regarding signs, symptoms, and complications of using ecstasy should be given to students through media, family, and schools.