U.S. HARM PREVENTION REDUCES DRUG USE

 

The U.S. policy of prevention of harm from drugs has reduced the number of addicts.

 

                                                        U.S.                 Australia

 

Policy basis                                    Prevention      Reduction

 

Any illicit drug use 1998                5%                   22%

 

Recent marijuana use 1998           8%                   38%

(12 to 17 year olds)

 

It is clear that the young people of the U.S. have responded to the anti drug use climate.

Source: 1998 National Houshold Survey SAMSHA & National Household Survey Aust. Institute of Health & Welfare 1999.

*****************************************************************************

U.S. drug use reduced dramatically between 1985 and 1992-

·       Marijuana use reduced by 50%

 

·       Cocaine use reduced by 79%

Source: Gold MS, Int’l Prevention Symposium London 1994.

 

CONCLUSION - HARM REDUCTION POLICIES MUST BE REPLACED WITH HARM PREVENTION POLICIES.

 

We support-

·       More detoxification and rehabilitation programs that divert addicts into a permanent drug free life.

·       Court ordered detoxification & rehabilitation programs.

·       Less addicts

·       Less drug pushers and drug related crimes.

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA Inc.

HEROIN FACT SHEET 8