Final report : Asia regional narcotics awareness survey

Utilizing secondary materials, interviews, and other existing data sources, the survey covered the nature and extent of drug use and abuse in each country, the institutional framework for public awareness/educational activities, and an assessment of program needs and strategy/implementation options. The eight countries surveyed display considerable variation in all the factors that go into defining public awareness of the drug problem and the ability to respond to the problem. For example, in Pakistan the heroin use problem is considered to be of epidemic proportions, in Thailand heroin use is endemic, while in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, it is just beginning to develop as a health and social problem. In all countries, the institutional apparatus in both the public and private sector requires strengthening. Recommendations addressing this need are put forth. (Author abstract)