Substance abuse is a research area that focuses on the misuse of drugs, alcohol, or other substances that can lead to harmful or detrimental effects on an individual's physical and mental health. Researchers in this field study various aspects of substance abuse, including the causes and risk factors, prevention strategies, treatment options, and the social and economic impacts of substance abuse on individuals and society as a whole. The goal of research in this area is to better understand and address the complex factors that contribute to substance abuse in order to develop more effective interventions and policies to combat this widespread public health issue.