Recent trends of drug abuse in Japan

Methamphetamine has been a continuous cause for concern for many years in Japan. Japan experienced the pandemics of methamphetamine abuse twice after World War II and is now facing the third pandemic. New data indicate that the abuse of drugs such as MDMA (ecstasy) and cannabis is rising at an alarming pace. An epidemiologic survey conducted by the National Research Institute reveals that drug abuse in Japan is still very low compared to that in other countries and regions; however, the current situation seems to be changing for the worse. Two major factors accelerate access to illicit drugs among young people. One is the presence of illicit drug-dealing groups, which indiscriminately offer drugs. The other is new technology such as the Internet and mobile phones. Strict law enforcement and intensive public awareness and prevention activities are indispensable in protecting young people from drug abuse.