NCJ Number
165913
Date Published
1996
Length
237 pages
Annotation
The impact of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs on all aspects of life in New York City was examined using data from official records, surveys, and other sources.
Abstract
The analysis revealed that drug abuse and addiction cost New York City more than $20 billion in 1994. This total included $5.1 billion in health care, $4.9 billion in productivity lost from the city's economy, $4.1 billion in criminal justice system expenses, $3.5 billion in public and private social services, $1.6 billion in increased insurance and related costs, and $835 million in property costs. Only 3.7 percent of the $20 billion went for drug treatment, only 0.4 percent went for prevention, and the other $19.2 billion paid for the consequences of the problem. Twenty-one dollars of every $100 in taxes covered the costs of drug abuse and addiction. However, the $20 billion is an underestimate due to unreported crime, inadequate health records, and other factors. Even a 20-percent reduction in substance abuse and addition would produce enormous cost savings, as well as reductions in child abuse, teen pregnancy, and other problems. Actions needed include strict drug laws, a zero-tolerance philosophy, energetic drug law enforcement at all levels, available treatment, comprehensive and continuing drug education of children and adults, a significant increase in funding for prevention and treatment, and increased research. Figures; reference notes; and appended background information, maps, and approximately 200 references