Utilizing Drug Scent Mimics to Enhance Public Engagement and Awareness in Narcotics Prevention Education

Abstract Background: Drug use disorders cause significant health and economic burdens globally. Effective preventive education is crucial for educating and reducing drug use in society. This study introduces an innovative approach using narcotic scent mimics (pseudoscents) to create an interactive and engaging atmosphere during anti-drug activities, thereby aiming to improve the outcome of drug preventive education. We also evaluated the effectiveness of incorporating narcotic scent mimics in enhancing public engagement and improving outcomes in preventive education. Methods: Pseudoscent samples of commonly abused drugs were distributed at public anti-drug events, campaigns, and education seminars. Anonymous questionnaires were distributed postevent to collect feedback. From the survey, we evaluated participants' responses on the potential and effectiveness of scent mimics in enhancing their understanding of harmful narcotics and raising awareness of the consequences of drug addiction. Results: A total of 126 respondents were included, 45% male and 55% female. The participants responded positively to this initiative. In particular, the respondents expressed general curiosity about the newly introduced drug scent mimic and found that the information derived from the pseudoscent experience was genuinely useful. These findings indicate that the use of pseudoscents in anti-drug events successfully piqued participants' curiosity and fostered public engagement for more effective anti-drug education. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that providing an interactive sensory experience effectively delivers drug preventive education messages to the public, suggesting that the use of narcotic scent mimics is an engaging and effective approach for anti-drug initiatives.