Synthetic drug abuse exceeds that of heroin and cocaine combined - UN

The first-ever United Nations global survey on ecstasy and amphetamines, released in Rome today, reveals a striking picture of rising production, trafficking and abuse of synthetic drugs worldwide.

According to the report, the seizures of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) over the last decade have risen tenfold, to almost 40 tons in 2000-2001 from about 4 tons in 1990-1991. Meanwhile, estimated production has reached more than 500 tons a year, and abuse is spreading at an alarming rate, with more than 40 million people having used them over the past 12 months.

"ATS are emerging as a 'public enemy number one' among illicit drugs," Antonio Maria Costa, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in presenting the "Ecstasy and Amphetamines Global Survey 2003" at a press conference in Rome.

"Neglected by societies as an almost acceptable feature of the 'let's-have-fun' culture in clubs and dance settings, synthetic drugs abuse begins with experimental use among mostly young people. Gradually, it may lead to dangerous polydrug use and addiction, with severe health consequences," he added.

The UNODC survey documents the alarming increase in the number and size of manufacturing sites, in more and more countries. Law enforcement agencies have dismantled a record number of "kitchen labs," but there is evidence of sophisticated clandestine operations with 100-kilogram capacities per week, an equivalent to 1 million Ecstasy pills, or 4 per cent of the estimated global weekly demand.

In addition, ATS abuse is spreading in geographical, age and income terms. In the past year, 34 million people worldwide have abused amphetamine and methamphetamine, and 8 million abused Ecstasy, exceeding the number of cocaine and heroin abusers combined. Abuse is highest in East and South-East Asia, followed by Europe, Australia and the United States.