NCJ Number
201060
Date Published
2002
Length
54 pages
Annotation
This synthesis of findings presented at the 53rd meeting (December 10-13, 2002) of the Community Epidemiology Work Group (CEWG) -- a network of epidemiologists and researchers in the United States that meets semiannually to review current and emerging substance abuse problems -- presents quantitative information on drug abuse in the United States.
Abstract
To assess drug abuse patterns and trends, data were obtained from a variety of health and other drug-abuse-indicator sources. Findings indicate the cocaine and "crack" cocaine continue to be the predominant illicit drugs in most CEWG areas, despite declining indicators in recent years. Heroin-abuse indicators increased among young White and suburban populations in several CEWG areas. Ongoing research is needed to determine the extent to which these users switch from inhalation to injection of this drug. Other opiate abuse indicators continue an upward trend, with increased use of controlled substances reported in almost all CEWG areas. Oxycodone, hydrocodone, and methadone abuse indicators increased in most CEWG areas. Research efforts are underway in some areas to assess the extent to which these drugs are diverted to illicit markets and are being abused. Marijuana abuse indicators continued to increase in 10 CEWG areas. In 2001, high proportions of clients entering treatment programs in 10 CEWG areas were primary marijuana abusers. Methamphetamine abuse indicators remained high in Hawaii, all west coast CEWG areas, and Phoenix. Abuse of methamphetamine has continued to spread to Denver, Detroit, and Minneapolis/St. Paul, and there is increasing evidence that it is spreading to populations in east coast areas. MDMA indicators have increased as the abuse of this drug becomes more widespread in most CEWG areas. Data are presented for each of the CEWG areas, and international information is provided for Canada, Central Asia, Egypt, Israel, Mexico, Palestine, and South Africa. A brief update on the Drug Abuse Warning Network is also presented. 26 exhibits