Drug-using youngsters soaring into millions

The number of drug users in the country has reached 15 million, and if urgent steps are not taken, the situation may well spiral out of control. These were the views of Major General (Retd) Aniqur Rahman as he spoke during an event at the University of Swabi aimed at raising awareness among students about drug prevention.

The gathering was organised by the Center for Advocacy Learning and Childhood (CAL), in collaboration with the district administration and the University of Swabi.

One of the key speakers of the event, Major General Inamul Haque, pointed out the long-term effects of drug abuse. He stated that dependence and addiction can be physical, or psychological, or both.

"Psychological dependence varies widely and can lead to obsession with the drug, obtaining and using it. He added that at the same time, a gradual decrease in drug effectiveness leads to repeated and larger doses. He continued that other risks included the transmission of disease through the use of non-sterile needles or syringes.

"The short-term effects hinder the brain's ability to make choices, increase the risk of unintentional physical harm, accidents and domestic violence.' Maj General Haque said the use of drugs also weakens the immune system."