Preparation and implementation of the part of the Research on the abuse of addictive substances in the general population of the Republic of Croatia, which is carried out and led by HZJZ

The main goal of the research is to collect data on the prevalence of consumption of different addictive substances in the general population and relevant subgroups of the population. The research concept is based on the methodological guidelines of the European Center for Monitoring Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) as well as on the experience of the Institute in research in the general population conducted in 2011, 2015 and 2019, the last in cooperation with HZJZ. The European Model Questionnaire (EMQ) was used in the research, a questionnaire that is standardly used in national studies of substance abuse in order to determine the prevalence of the use of legal (tobacco, alcohol, drugs) and illegal substances of addiction, and the prevalence of playing games on happiness, playing video games and using social networks. Also included are instruments that examine the quality of life, lifestyles and health risks of Croatian citizens. The results of research at the national level provide an insight into the situation in the area of ​​the use of addictive substances in the general population. This information provides the basis for understanding and assessing the situation, determining priorities, and designing and evaluating strategies to combat substance abuse. Standardized research methodology enables the monitoring of trends in the use of addictive substances as well as the international comparability of the epidemiological situation in the field of abuse of addictive substances.