NCJ Number
235727
Date Published
May 2011
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper provides information on the prevalence of illicit drug use in the United States and the Office of National Drug Control Policy's efforts to prevent drug use and treat addiction.
Abstract
In 2009, an estimated 72 million Americans ages 12 or older were current (past month) users of illicit drugs. The drugs used the most were marijuana/hashish, cocaine (including crack), heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants, and the misuse of prescription drugs. Drugs caused more deaths than firearms and alcohol in 2007. Drug prevention efforts have been most effective when delivered through parents (core values) and reinforced in schools, workplaces, and community organizations (reinforcing values). For fiscal year (FY) 2012, the Obama administration has requested approximately $10.7 billion to support drug-demand reduction. This includes nearly a 15-percent increase for prevention and a 1-percent increase for treatment compared to FY 2011. The overall FY2012 national drug budget request, including supply reduction, is $26.2 billion, an increase of $485.7 million over FY 2011. The FY 2012 budget request includes $15.0 million for a pilot network of "prevention-prepared communities," which offer continuous evidence-based interventions throughout adolescence. Other prevention efforts include State substance abuse prevention grants, the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign, and the Drug Free Communities Support Program. This paper also describes ONDCP drug treatment activities as well as recovery support, which includes services needed to help individuals develop skills that lead to self-sufficiency and productivity.