Report on Drug Use in Pakistan 2013 reveals high levels of drug use and dependency |
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Cannabis was found to be the most commonly used drug in Pakistan, with by 3.6 per cent of the adult population, or four million people, listed as users. Opiates, namely opium and heroin, are used by almost one per cent of overall drugs users, and the highest levels of use are seen in the provinces which border principal poppy-cultivating areas in neighbouring Afghanistan.
The Report also shows high prevalence in non-medical use of prescription drugs nationwide, particularly amongst women. Almost all women who reveal they used drugs, resort to misusing opioid-based painkillers, and to a lesser extent tranquilizers and sedatives, which are readily available in pharmacies. Another key finding is the emergence of methamphetamine use in some areas of the country. Vulnerability to HIV and other blood-borne diseases through injecting drug use is also considerable, with 430,000 drug users estimated to be injecting drugs in Pakistan, a higher estimate than reported previously. The Drug Use in Pakistan 2013 is the result of a collaborative research effort between the Narcotics Control Division Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, and UNODC. It aims to provide baseline information on the prevalence and patterns of drug use among the population aged 15 to 64 in order to inform Government, civil society and private-sector organizations in designing and implementing effective prevention, treatment and care services across the country. Addressing the audience convening today on the launching ceremony, Mr. Guedes said that there is a strong need for increased support of existing supply and demand reduction measures outlined under the Pakistan Vision 2025 and there is strong need to engage stable commitments from the Government, civil society and private sector, supported by the international community. Increased efforts from law enforcement agencies are required to reduce the supply of narcotics and regulate the supply chain management and dispensing of prescription drugs. The public health aspects of prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration must to be recognized as key elements in the effort to reduce drug demand."
Downloadable Survey Report Drug Use in Pakistan 2013 |
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