What does the term "substance abuse" refer to in the context of lifestyle risk factors?

The term "substance abuse" is understood to signify the misuse of substances, which includes both prescription medications and non-prescription (or recreational) drugs. This encompasses situations where individuals use substances in a manner that is not intended by the prescribing doctor or outside the guidelines provided for safe use, leading to harmful consequences.

This definition captures both the non-medical use of prescription drugs—such as taking a medication not prescribed to oneself or using it in a way not prescribed—and the use of illegal drugs or misuse of over-the-counter medications. Given the broad nature of substance abuse, it is not limited to alcohol issues alone or to responsible or prescribed uses, emphasizing the importance of understanding how various substances can become problematic when misused.