Why it matters:
The United Nations’ annual “World Drug Report” for 2023 reveals that drug use remains high worldwide, with cannabis being the most commonly used drug and opioids causing the most harm. The report highlights the increasing number of cannabis users and the gender divide in cannabis use. It also underscores the severity of the opioid epidemic, particularly in the United States.
What they are saying:
The report states that drug use is prevalent globally, with an estimated 296 million people aged 15-64 having used drugs in the past year. Cannabis is identified as the most used drug, with 219 million users in 2021, representing 4.3% of the global adult population. However, opioids continue to be the primary cause of severe drug-related harm, including fatal overdoses. The report reveals that an estimated 60 million people engaged in non-medical opioid use in 2021, with opioids accounting for nearly 70% of deaths attributed to drug use disorders in 2019.
The big picture:
The report highlights the continued rise in drug use worldwide, with cannabis and opioids being the two most significant contributors. The increase in cannabis use may be linked to legalization efforts in the United States and other regions. Meanwhile, the opioid epidemic remains a major public health crisis, causing a significant number of overdose deaths and accounting for the majority of drug use disorders. Regional differences are observed in primary drugs of abuse, with opioids most prevalent in Europe and parts of Asia, cocaine in Latin America, cannabis in parts of Africa, and methamphetamine in East and Southeast Asia.
What to watch:
The trends observed in the report suggest a need for continued efforts to address drug use and its associated harms. Monitoring the impact of cannabis legalization on drug use patterns, particularly among women, will be crucial. Additionally, ongoing strategies to combat the opioid epidemic and reduce opioid-related deaths and overdoses should be a priority. Monitoring regional variations in drug use and injecting drug use is also important for targeted interventions and support.
My take:
The UN’s World Drug Report underscores the global challenges posed by drug use, with cannabis and opioids being the most significant substances of concern. It is concerning to see the increasing number of cannabis users, especially among women, despite potential benefits of legalization. The devastating impact of the opioid epidemic, particularly in the United States, necessitates intensified efforts to prevent opioid misuse, provide treatment options, and reduce overdose deaths. Addressing these global drug issues requires a multifaceted approach, including prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and policy interventions.
