The spokesperson for the Drug Control Headquarters announced that over 3,000 people died due to drug abuse in the year 1395 (2016) and reported that the number of regular drug users in Iran stands at 2 million and 808 thousand. According to the state news agency IRNA, Parviz Afshar stated this on Saturday, July 3, in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse (July 5), noting that there was a 6.2% increase in drug-related deaths compared to the previous year. Among the victims, 1,882 died from acute poisoning due to drugs. Afshar also indicated that deaths from the use of psychotropic substances increased by 8.6%, stating that 'this growth has sounded the alarm for the use of these substances.' He called for special awareness campaigns regarding 'the misuse of psychotropic substances' and emphasized the need for education on this matter in schools, universities, military barracks, and even kindergartens. The spokesperson identified opium as the most consumed drug in Iran, accounting for 66.8% of drug use, and reported a significant decrease in the consumption of crystal meth. Based on epidemiological methods, he announced that the number of addicts in Iran is 2 million and 802 thousand, adding that 3,600 high-risk students have been identified across the country. The Director General of the Social Damage Prevention Office of the Ministry of Education stated last November that currently, 136,000 students in Iran are at risk of drug use. Nader Mansour Kiai added that '1% of students are addicted, indicating a large number of individuals are dependent on drugs.' He also mentioned that 'most of the drug-using students are boys over the age of 15.' On March 4 of last year, Hossein Tala, a member of the Social Commission of the Parliament, reported that 130,000 'addicted' students are sitting in school desks. Shahindokht Molaverdi, the Iranian Vice President for Women and Family Affairs, also announced last November that the 'average age of addiction' among girls is 13 years. In this context, the Minister of Interior stated that there are 40,000 visible addicts in 12 provinces of Iran. Molaverdi reported an increase in unemployment and addiction rates among girls. A government official noted that 37 individuals, whose status as homeless is unclear, have been admitted to a drug rehabilitation center. A member of parliament criticized the 'concealment' of social damage statistics. An official stated that 1% of Iranian students are at risk of addiction.
2.8 Million: The Number of Regular Drug Users in Iran
The Iranian Drug Control Headquarters reported that there are 2.8 million regular drug users in Iran, with a significant increase in drug-related deaths and psychotropic substance use. The alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for awareness and education on drug abuse, particularly among youth.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Iranian Drug Control Headquarters reported that there are 2.8 million regular drug users in Iran, with a notable increase in drug-related deaths and psychotropic substance use. This alarming trend has prompted calls for enhanced awareness and educational initiatives, especially targeting the youth.
- Over 3,000 people died from drug abuse in 2016, marking a 6.2% increase from the previous year.
- Opium is the most commonly used drug in Iran, comprising 66.8% of drug consumption.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has long struggled with drug addiction, particularly due to its geographic location near major opium-producing regions. The issue affects various demographics, including youth and women.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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