Related Experiment Videos
Increasing morbidity and mortality associated with abuse of methamphetamine--United States, 1991-1994
Abstract:
Methamphetamine (also known as "speed," "crystal," "crank," "go," and "ice") is the most widely illegally manufactured, distributed, and abused type of amphetamine, a class of stimulant drugs. An estimated 4 million persons in the United States have abused methamphetamine at least once (1). Information from several sources--including medical examiners, hospital emergency departments (EDs), substance-abuse-treatment facilities, and community epidemiologists--suggests a recent increase in morbidity and mortality associated with abuse of methamphetamine in the United States, primarily in the West but also in the South and Midwest. To characterize trends in methamphetamine-associated morbidity and mortality during 1991-1994, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) compiled and analyzed data from the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) and the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS). This report summarizes the results of these analyses.
Insights
Illicit methamphetamine abuse is rising, leading to increased health problems and deaths across the US. This study analyzes 1991-1994 data to understand these dangerous trends in stimulant drug use.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Methamphetamine, a stimulant drug, is widely manufactured, distributed, and abused illegally.
- An estimated 4 million individuals in the United States have a history of methamphetamine abuse.
- Recent data indicate an increase in methamphetamine-related health issues and fatalities, particularly in western US regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in methamphetamine-associated morbidity and mortality.
- To characterize the scope of methamphetamine abuse during a specific period.
Main Methods:
- Compilation and analysis of data from the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN).
- Utilization of the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) for comprehensive analysis.
- Examination of information from medical examiners, emergency departments, and treatment facilities.
Main Results:
- Data suggest a significant increase in methamphetamine-related health problems and deaths between 1991 and 1994.
- Geographic distribution of increased morbidity and mortality noted, with a primary concentration in the West, but also observed in the South and Midwest.
- Analysis highlights the growing public health concern associated with illicit stimulant drug abuse.
Conclusions:
- The period 1991-1994 showed a concerning rise in methamphetamine-associated health consequences and mortality.
- Continued surveillance and intervention strategies are crucial to address illicit amphetamine abuse.
- Understanding these trends is vital for public health policy and resource allocation.