Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Jesse Copelyn for Spotlight
Published on 2024-03-06 19:47:14
In a new study published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, data reveals a concerning trend in drug use in South Africa. The study compares drug consumption rates in 2002 and 2017, showing a drastic increase from less than 2% to 10% of people surveyed who reported using illicit drugs in the past three months. The most commonly used drug was marijuana, followed by harder substances like cocaine, crack-cocaine, and opioids, which saw significant increases in usage over the years.
The study found that drug use is prevalent across different demographics in South Africa, but individuals from Cape coloured backgrounds have been disproportionately affected. Young males aged 25 to 34 living in urban areas were found to be more likely to use drugs than others. Despite this increase in drug use, there was no direct link found between drug use and HIV status, although the study did reveal that drug users were less likely to be tested for HIV, which can pose a challenge in reaching the UN targets for HIV testing and treatment.
The study drew conclusions from household surveys conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) in 2002, 2005, 2008, 2012, and 2017. While the surveys aimed to capture national trends in drug use, there were limitations, including inconsistencies in questioning about prescription medicines in the 2017 survey. However, overall, the trends in drug use seemed to be accurate and reflective of the reality in South Africa.
Experts interviewed for the study pointed to several reasons behind the surge in drug use. One major factor is the increase in international drug trafficking, resulting in more drugs entering the country at lower prices. Additionally, economic factors such as high unemployment and poverty likely contribute to the demand for drugs as they may provide an escape from physical and emotional pain for some individuals.
To address the growing drug problem in South Africa, experts recommend a balanced approach that includes law enforcement targeting higher-level drug dealers, as well as treatment and harm-reduction measures. The National Drug Master Plan 2019-2024 outlines these strategies but may require more resources and enforcement for proper implementation. One specific recommendation is the expansion of opioid substitution therapy (OST), which has been shown to be effective in treating opioid addiction.
In conclusion, the rise in drug use in South Africa presents a complex issue with multiple underlying causes. Addressing this problem will require a multifaceted approach that combines law enforcement, treatment options, and policy measures to effectively combat substance abuse in the country.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
