Gender effects on drug use, abuse, and dependence: a special analysis of results from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Background: Gender is increasingly being studied for risk and protective factors underlying substance abuse and addiction.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among drug users.

Methods: A national population sample was examined, focusing on 2 age groups (youths, aged 12-17 years, and young adults, aged 18-25 years) and several commonly abused substances (alcohol, marijuana, and nonmedical prescription medication use).