NCJ Number
165649
Date Published
1986
Length
223 pages
Annotation
Because illicit drugs remain a tremendous drain on the economy, are currently the leading risk factor in AIDS transmission, and continue to destroy the fabric of life in many inner-city communities, an agenda for action is suggested that focuses on supply and demand, treatment, evaluation, research, and the protection of those who do not use illicit drugs.
Abstract
The author first explores the use of mood-altering drugs and defines the drug problem in terms of economic costs, crime, medical complications, impact on the family, and self-esteem. He then examines in detail the revenues generated by the tobacco, alcohol, sports, and entertainment industries and the role of these industries in promoting drug use. The author also considers the issues of pharmaceutical company profit versus responsibility, the role of physicians and pharmacists in the early identification and referral of drug abusers, the role of the "white collar crowd" (attorneys, legislators, managers, teachers, and drug abuse professionals), Federal drug law enforcement efforts, and individual responsibility. Specific actions are proposed to diminish the supply of and the demand for illicit drugs, increase the regulation of advertising alcohol and tobacco products, hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for advertisements, enhance drug abuse prevention efforts, expand existing drug research, and protect those who do not use drugs. Reference notes and tables