Countries with Severe Drug Addiction Problems

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United States

Opioid epidemic with over 70,000 overdose deaths in 2019. Has the highest number of people with drug use disorder (over 12 million in 2021). High rate of illegal drug use attributed to large economy, border vulnerabilities, and market appeal for drug smugglers.

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Afghanistan

Leading producer of opium with severe domestic addiction crisis. Over 2.9 million drug users. Conflict, poverty, and trauma have exacerbated substance abuse, particularly opium and heroin.

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Iran

One of the highest rates of opioid addiction globally with 2.8% of adults addicted, largely due to proximity to Afghanistan. Government has implemented harm reduction strategies, but economic sanctions and stigma hinder progress.

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Russia

High rates of opioid dependence affecting 1.8% of the population, primarily heroin. Injecting drug use has contributed to an HIV epidemic. Punitive policies limit access to harm reduction services.

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Brazil

Significant abuse of cocaine and crack cocaine, with visible "cracolândias" (cracklands) in urban areas. Socioeconomic inequalities and trafficking routes contribute to the crisis.

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Philippines

Methamphetamine ("shabu") is the primary drug of concern, leading to a controversial "war on drugs." Socioeconomic disparities and punitive approaches deter many from seeking help.

Other Notable Countries

  • China: Rapidly growing number of drug users, increasing from 70,000 in 1990 to over 1 million by 2005, with heroin being a major concern.
  • Canada: High opioid use and is addressing overdose crises with treatments like naloxone.
  • European Nations: Countries like the UK (high cocaine use), Spain (high cocaine consumption), and Sweden (elevated amphetamine use) also report significant drug problems.

Global Trends

Total Drug Users

292 million globally (2022)

Most Used Drug

Cannabis (228 million users)

Opioid Users

60 million globally

Economic Impact

Billions annually ($193B in U.S. for illicit drugs)

Key Insights

Drug addiction remains a complex global challenge influenced by production, trafficking, socioeconomic factors, and policy approaches. Effective solutions require evidence-based strategies, harm reduction, and addressing root causes like poverty and lack of opportunity.

For more detailed data, refer to the UNODC World Drug Reports and other public health resources.