Hello Folks!
Today we’ll discuss the World Drug Report 2021 released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). We will let you know about the report, its significance, and key findings for 2021.
What is the World Drug Report?
World Drug Report is a detailed analysis of the global drug markets. It signifies the measurable effects and potential impact of COVID-19 crisis on the world drug problem. It analyses market trends and compiles detailed statistics on drug markets. It is annually published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The first report was published in 1987.
Key Findings Of The Report
- The report stated that around 275 million people used drugs worldwide in the last year during the first few months when the pandemic began.
- There has been an increase of 22% in the number of people using drugs from 2010-2019.
- Among the people who consumed drugs 13% of them (36 million) suffered from drug disorders.
- Opioids drugs still account for the largest burden of disease.
- Over 11 million people across the globe inject drugs. Half of them suffer from Hepatitis C.
- The report also noted about the increase of cocaine supply in Europe. This may widen the harm caused by drugs in the region.
Report on Cannabis Potency
Cannabis potency has increased by four times in some parts of the world. Also, the percentage of youngsters who consider cannabis as harmful fell by 40%.
The report highlighted the need to bridge this gap of perception and reality among the people. It focused on the need to educate the people about the harmful effect of the drug.
Δ9-THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis, is responsible for development of mental health disorders in the long term.
Impact Of COVID-19 On Drug Use
The world drug report 2021 suggests that due to the economic hardship the cultivation of drugs has increased among the weaker rural communities. Also increasing mental health issues and poverty are likely the factors for accelerated demand for drugs.
There has been an immense rise observed in the non- pharmaceutical use of drugs. As per the survey by health professionals in 77 countries, cannabis use has increased in 42 countries during the pandemic.
The report found that drug markets across the world are making huge sales after being disrupted at the beginning of pandemic. The Dark Web Drug markets are worth at least US$ 315 million.
India’s Condition On Drugs
China and India are mostly linked to the transportation of medicines offered on the 19 major dark net markets studied from 2011 to 2020 in Asia.
Steps taken by India against drug abuse
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) are involved in alcohol and drug demand reduction.
Also the Drug de-addiction programme (DDAP) by the Ministry is undertaken to reduce the drug use related problems in the country.
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Observed: 26 June
2021 Theme: “Share Facts on Drugs. Save Lives”
With this, we come to the end of this blog. Hope you enjoyed reading.
Stay tuned!
