DRUGS - ONE YEAR ON
In April 2009 the federal Minister for Health and Aging supported a national campaign that targeted illicit drugs it disclosed-
ICE users are at risk of drug induced psychosis which may lead to aggressive and violent behaviour, damaged teeth and gums, skin lesions, stroke, panic attacks, anxiety and severe depression.
Ecstasy users are at risk of chronic sleep problems, cracked teeth, high blood pressure, dehydration, anxiety, nervousness, hallucinations, severe depression, thermal meltdown and death from heart failure.
Cannabis users are at risk of psychosis, depression, risky sexual behaviours and chronic respiratory conditions.
Almost four out of ten Australians over 14 years of age had used some kind of illicit drug at some time in their life.
(Source: Media Release, Minister for Health and Aging, 19 April 2009).
DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-
So what has changed in the past year?
The scientific evidence of the medical risks of these illicit drugs to the health of Australians particularly young Australians is growing.
So are the community risks of vehicle and work accidents, violence, law enforcement, border protection and criminal justice.
Australia has a high level of drug using young people by world standards.
Now is the time to support diversion into detoxification and rehabilitation for identified illicit drug users.
Australia now needs to reduce its drug using population to worlds best practice by court ordered and supervised rehabilitation.
THE DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS-
More detoxification & rehabilitation that gets illicit drug users drug free.
Court ordered and supervised detoxification & rehabilitation.
Less illicit drug users, drug pushers and drug related crimes.
15/2010
