Europe
In this section we have listed Irish research from 2005 onwards, by year of publication.
The European Drug Report 2018: Trends and Developments
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2018),The European Drug Report 2018: Trends and Developments.
Our report is designed to equip our stakeholders with a comprehensive overview. It will also provide an early warning of new drug trends, help identify priorities for national and
local strategic planning, enable comparisons between countries and support evaluations through the provision of data on trends. The report is complemented by our recent triennial publication, the Health and social responses to drug problems: a European guide (2017).
Health and social responses to drug problems
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), Health and social responses to drug problems: a European guide, Publications Ofce of the European Union, Luxembourg.
This guide and the associated package of online materials provides a reference point for planning or delivering health and social responses to drug problems in Europe. The most appropriate responses will depend on the specific drug problems, the contexts in which these occur and the types of intervention that are possible and socially acceptable. By providing key information on some of the most important drug issues for Europe and the responses available, this guide aims to assist those involved in tackling these challenges to develop new programmes and improve existing ones.
New developments in national drug strategies in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), New developments in national drug strategies in Europe, EMCDDA Papers, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
This paper gives an overview of some recent developments in the tools most commonly used to manage national drug policies: strategies, coordination mechanisms and evaluations. It is based on an analysis of reports on national drug policies compiled by the EMCDDA’s Reitox focal points in the EMCDDA reporting countries (28 EU Member States, plus Turkey and Norway), consultation with experts and scientific literature.
Wastewater analysis and drugs: a European multi-city study
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon, 2018.
The findings of the largest European project to date in the emerging science of wastewater analysis are taken up in this ‘Perspective on drugs’. The project in question analysed wastewater in around 60 European cities and towns (hereinafter referred to as ‘cities’) to explore the drug-taking habits of those who live in them. The results provide a valuable snapshot of the drug flow through the cities involved, revealing marked geographical variations*.
EMCDDA–Europol Joint Report on a new psychoactive substance: methyl 1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-[phenyl(propanoyl)amino]piperidine-4-carboxylate (carfentanil)
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), EMCDDA–Europol Joint Report on a new psychoactive substance: methyl 1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-[phenyl(propanoyl) amino]piperidine-4-carboxylate (carfentanil), Joint Reports, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
In May 2017, the EMCDDA and Europol examined the available information on the new psychoactive substance methyl 1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-[phenyl(propanoyl)amino]piperidine-4-carboxylate (carfentanil), through a joint assessment. The two organisations launched a data collection on this substance for the preparation of a Joint Report as stipulated by Article 5.1 of the Council Decision. The Joint Report was submitted to the Council, the Commission and the European Medicines Agency on 27 July 2017.
Drug testing in schools
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), Drug testing in schools,EMCDDA Papers, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
Although rare, drug testing in schools continues to be practised in some European countries, where it is seen as a deterrent to use. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of random testing in schools, based on studies conducted among students aged 13 to 19 years, in the United States. Although different with regard to study design and the type of testing offered, all of the studies show that testing has little or no effect on drug use.
Drugs and the darknet Perspectives for enforcement,research and policy
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and Europol (2017), Drugs and the darknet: Perspectives for enforcement, research and policy, EMCDDA–Europol Joint publications, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
This joint report prepared by the EMCDDA and Europol considers the latest findings from international research, fresh empirical data, and operational information and intelligence in order to illuminate how darknet markets function and how they relate to criminal behaviour. The publication adopts an EU focus of what is a global phenomenon. It is comprehensive but accessible and policy-oriented, intended to facilitate discussions at EU-level on how to respond to darknet drug markets, whilst identifying key priority areas that require attention and where activities are likely to have most impact.
Programming document 2018–20
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Continuity and change: building on the 2016–18 Strategy and work programme, towards the EMCDDA Strategy 2025.
Furanylfentanyl
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Report on the risk assessment of N-phenyl-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)piperidin-4-yl]furan-2-carboxamide (furanylfentanyl) in the framework of the Council Decision on new psychoactive substances.
Drug squads: units specialised in drug law enforcement in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Developing drug supply monitoring in Europe: current concepts
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Acryloylfentanyl
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Report on the risk assessment of N-(1‑phenethylpiperidin-4-yl)-N-phenylacrylamide (acryloylfentanyl) in the framework of the Council Decision on new psychoactive substances.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and Europol (2017), Drugs and the darknet: Perspectives for enforcement, research and policy, EMCDDA–Europol Joint publications, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2017
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), Health and social responses to drug problems: a European guide, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2017
European Drug Report 2017
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), European Drug Report 2017: Trends and Developments, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
The Trends and Developments report presents a top-level overview of the drug phenomenon in Europe, covering drug supply, use and public health problems as well as drug policy and responses. Together with the online Statistical Bulletin, Country Drug Reports and Perspectives on Drugs, it makes up the 2017 European Drug Report package.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2017) Perspectives on drugs: Wastewater analysis and drugs — a European multi-city study.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2017) Perspectives on drugs: Wastewater analysis and drugs — a European multi-city study. Lisbon: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. 9 p
The findings of the largest European project to date in the emerging science of wastewater analysis are taken up in this ‘Perspective on drugs’. The project in question analysed wastewater in over 60 European cities and towns (hereinafter referred to as ‘cities’) to explore the drug-taking habits of those who live in them. The results provide a valuable snapshot of the drug flow through the cities involved, revealing marked geographical variations*.
Perspectives on drugs: preventing overdose deaths in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2017) Perspectives on drugs: preventing overdose deaths in Europe. Lisbon: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction.
It is estimated that over 70 000 lives were lost to drug overdoses in Europe in the first decade of the twenty-first century. Reducing drug-related deaths therefore remains a major challenge for public health policy. This analysis describes some of the factors that increase the risk of fatal and non-fatal overdoses and a number of interventions developed to prevent these events.
Alcohol and society. Theme 2016/2017: alcohol and cancer.
Andresasson, Sven and Chikritzhs, Tanya and Dangardt, Frida and Holder, Harold D and Naimi, Timothy and Stockwell, Tim . (2017) Alcohol and society. Theme 2016/2017: alcohol and cancer. Stockholm: IOGT-NTO & Swedish Society of Medicine & CERA. 46 p.
International research has shown that alcohol can cause cancer, even at moderate consumption levels. This report includes estimates that almost 30% of the cases of alcohol-induced cancer in Sweden are due to moderate or low levels of alcohol consumption and that the more the individual consumes, the greater the risk.
Drug supply reduction: an overview of EU policies and measures
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2017) Drug supply reduction: an overview of EU policies and measures. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.
Drug trafficking penalties across the European Union: a survey of expert opinion
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2017) Drug trafficking penalties across the European Union: a survey of expert opinion. Technical report. Lisbon: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
Alcohol and digestive cancers across Europe: time for change
United European Gastroenterology. (2017) Alcohol and digestive cancers across Europe: time for change. Vienna: United European Gastroenterology.
The European region has the highest levels of alcohol consumption in the world, with one-fifth of the population aged 15 and above drinking heavily at least once a week. As a result, the continent also has the highest proportion of total ill health and premature death directly linked to alcohol. Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for digestive cancers, including oesophageal, liver, pancreatic, colorectal and gastric cancer.
High-risk drug use and new psychoactive substances
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2017), High-risk drug use and new psychoactive substances, EMCDDA Rapid Communication, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
IThis report provides a first look at the emergence of more problematic forms of use of new psychoactive substances among a range of demographic groups, including opioid and amphetamine injectors, prisoners, the homeless and men who have sex with men. It explores, in particular, the use of synthetic cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids and new synthetic opioids, as well as related harms and responses.
Growing up unequal: gender and socioeconomic differences in young people's health and well-being.
WHO Regional Office for Europe. (2016) WHO Regional Office for Europe.
The report releases data from 42 countries on a range of new topics, such as peer relationships and family support, the school environment, migration, cyber-bullying and serious injury, with the more traditional data on alcohol and tobacco consumption, mental health and nutrition-related behaviour. The report provides data on gender differences and behaviour change in the 11–15-year age group, years that mark a period of increased autonomy that can influence how health and health-related behaviour develops and continues into adulthood. The report highlights socioeconomic differences and variations between countries and regions. It identifies opportunities for policy interventions, as the findings underline the importance of the wider social context and the effect it can have on young people's health.
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Study on the exposure of minors to alcohol advertising on linear and non-linear audio-visual media services and other online services, including a content analysis.
European Commission. (2016) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg .
The first report on the application of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) was published on 4 May 2012. This report indicated that, with regard to alcohol advertising, further investigations were necessary to assess, amongst other things, the exposure of minors to commercial communications for alcoholic beverages. Against this background, the purpose of this study was to answer three research questions:- How much alcohol advertising does an average minor6 watching linear audio-visual media services (i.e. television broadcasting) in the European Union (EU) see?
- How much alcohol advertising does an average minor see on non-linear audio-visual media services (i.e. on-demand audio-visual media services) and other online services in the EU?
- How much alcohol advertising does an average minor6 watching linear audio-visual media services (i.e. television broadcasting) in the European Union (EU) see?
- How much alcohol advertising does an average minor see on non-linear audio-visual media services (i.e. on-demand audio-visual media services) and other online services in the EU?
- For audio-visual media services (both linear and non-linear) and other onlineservices, what type of alcohol advertising does an average minor see in the EU? Are minors specifically targeted by alcohol advertising? In how far is alcohol advertising appealing to minors and how? In particular, in how far do the provisions of the AVMSD and their application afford the required level of protection?
The internet and drug markets.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2016) Publications Office of the European Union. 136 p. EMCDDA Insights 21
The last decade has seen the emergence of new internet technologies that have acted as important facilitators of online drug markets. The internet now hosts a range of virtual marketplaces (both on the surface and deep web) for selling and buying illicit substances, as well as representing a new arena for health and law enforcement interventions. This first EMCDDA investigation into the world of online drug markets brings together state-of-the-art input from over 20 experts — from academia, journalism and frontline practice — and contributes to the knowledge base on this part of the supply chain.
Preventing opioid overdose deaths with take-home naloxone.
Strang, J. and McDonald, R. eds. (2016) Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. 104 p. EMCDDA Insights Series no. 20
This publication examines the case for distributing naloxone, an emergency medication, to people who inject opioids such as heroin and to others who might witness an opioid overdose. Through its capacity to reverse opioid overdose, naloxone can save lives if administered in time. This comprehensive review looks at opioid overdose and how naloxone counteracts it, and discusses the circumstances of opioid overdose deaths and the use of naloxone in regular clinical practice. As well as documenting the historical development and spread of take-home naloxone programmes in Europe and beyond, the study looks at the practical side of their implementation, including the training of naloxone recipients in how to recognise and respond to an overdose. Although take-home naloxone is supported by the World Health Organization, the report finds that barriers to its access exist in Europe and considers how the availability of the intervention may be expanded.
Impact of advertisements promoting candy-like flavoured e-cigarettes on appeal of tobacco smoking among children: an experimental study.
Vasiljevic, M. and Petrescu, D. C. and Marteau, T. M. (2016) BMJ Publishing. Tobacco Control
Background: There are concerns that the marketing of e-cigarettes may increase the appeal of tobacco smoking in children. We examined this concern by assessing the impact on appeal of tobacco smoking after exposure to advertisements for e-cigarettes with and without candy-like flavours, such as, bubble gum and milk chocolate.
National community action on alcohol project pilot 2015: external evaluation report.
Galligan, Claire (2015) Department of Health; Alcohol Forum and Health Service Executive, Ireland .
The National Community Action on Alcohol Pilot Project began in January 2015. The project was delivered by the Alcohol Forum in partnership with the Drug Programmes and Policy Unit, Department of Health and the Health and Wellbeing Division of the HSE. The project sought to reduce alcohol related harm, by supporting Drug and Alcohol Task Forces to adopt a ‘community mobilization’ approach.
Presentations from the Lisbon addictions conference 2015. In: EMCDDA Conference on 20 years of monitoring and communicating evidence on drugs, 21-22 September, Lisbon.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015)
The conference aimed to reflect on past successes but also to be forward-looking. Key issues to help the EMCDDA better achieve its aims include: increased data quality and comparability; improved timeliness; better identification of emerging trends; faster and more sensitive monitoring approaches; and the integration of traditional and new monitoring methods (e.g. wastewater analysis, internet surveys). The ultimate aim of this milestone event will be to contribute to reducing drug-related harms through better informed and faster evaluated policies.
Accidental injury, risk-taking behaviour and the social circumstances in which young people (aged 12-24) live: a systematic review.
Thomas, J and Kavanagh, J and Tucker, H and Burchett, H and Tripney, J and Oakley, A (2007) EPPI-Centre, Social Science Research Unit, Institute of Education, University of London.
In industrialised countries such as England and Wales, unintended injury (which ranges from sprains in sport to hospitalisation and death due to drugs or transport crashes) is the leading cause of death in children aged 0 to 14 years, and a major cause of death in young adults aged 15 to 24. It is also a major cause of ill health and disability in these age groups. There is a large body of research on young people and their perceived propensity to take risks. Common sense suggests that an increased willingness to place oneself at risk will result an increased likelihood of physical injury. However, given that pathways to injury are complex and not always well understood, the UK Department of Health commissioned a large systematic review to examine this multifaceted issue.
The European health report 2015. Targets and beyond – reaching new frontiers in evidence.
(2015) World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.
This publication presents highlights from the 2015 European health report. It shows continuing improvements in health throughout the Region and decreases in some of the inequalities in health between countries, notably in life expectancy and infant mortality; nevertheless, these differences still amount to 11 years of life and 20 healthy babies per 1000 live births between the best- and worst-performing countries. Absolute differences between countries remain unacceptably large, especially for indicators linked to social determinants of health, and the European Region still has the highest rates of alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking in the world.
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UK life in recovery survey 2015. The first national UK survey of addiction recovery experiences.
Best, D., Albertson, K., Irving, J., Lightowlers, C., Mama-Rudd, A. and Chaggar, A.. (2015) Sheffield Hallam University and Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice, Sheffield .
The report outlines UK respondents' recovery experiences, reports on their pathways to recovery and details the impact that recovery has had on their quality of life
Drug-related infectious diseases in Europe: update from the EMCDDA expert network.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015) European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon .
This report provides an update on infectious diseases related to injecting drug use in Europe for the period up to June 2015. The report covers both the EMCDDA Drug-related infectious diseases indicator, which collects data on the situation, and the responses in the area. It includes highlights and new findings discussed during the indicator's annual expert meeting, held in Lisbon on 15 and 16 June 2015. This two-day event offered a platform for discussion among experts from the 28 EU Member States, Norway and Turkey. Topics receiving particular attention include: an update of the HIV situation and concerns in some countries; bacterial infections, including botulism outbreaks in Scotland and Norway; and changing patterns of injection in Europe and their implications for public health. Challenges in scaling up HCV treatments and good national examples in this area are also discussed.
Service user involvement: a guide for commissioners, providers and service users.
Public Health England. (2015) Public Health England.
Service users’ involvement in the design and delivery of services has contributed significantly to the evolution of effective drug and alcohol treatment systems. This guide builds on guidance published by the National Treatment Agency (NTA) in 2006,1 looking at the evidence base, the different levels of involvement, and the impact of involvement on service users and treatment effectiveness. There is enthusiasm for service user involvement (SUI) across the country, with a mixture of different approaches and design. This document is intended to be a useful guide to exploring and developing further SUI in your area.
Prevention of addictive behaviours. EMCDDA Insights Series no. 18
Buhler, Anneke and Thrul, Johannes European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015) Publications Office of the European Union.
This publication is an update of Prevention of substance abuse, published in 2007. Like the previous analysis, it is a translation of a German study that presents a state-of-the-art review of prevention science. Although originally targeted at the German audience, the evidence base addressed is global in its scope. The review is broad in its considerations, covering not only the main topic of drug abuse but also alcohol and tobacco, as well as behavioural addictions, such as gambling.
Steroids and image enhancing drugs. 2014 survey results.
McVeigh, Jim and Bates, Geoff and Chandler, Martin (2015) Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Hopkins University. 16 p.
The use of performance-enhancing substances by athletes is as old as sport itself. However, over the past decade, concern has grown as the use of a wide variety of drugs being used — in particular anabolic steroids and growth hormone — has transcended the elite sporting arena to the general population where they are used for both performance- and image-enhancing reasons. However, even for the most commonly used and best known of the substances, anabolic steroids, there is a paucity of reliable information as to the prevalence of use.
This group of drug users, referred to as steroid and image enhancing drugs (SIEDs) users presents a number of specific challenges for healthcare services; they are injecting drug users who frequently employ very complex drug regimens with no evidential basis.
In order to better understand and evidence the public health issues, Public Health Wales commissioned an online survey of SIED users in the UK, in collaboration with academic colleagues at the Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University. This document summarises key findings from the second year of the SIEDs survey, with a particular focus of the report being on the specific drugs of use. The report also outlines the further dissemination of results from the 2014 data sweep of the survey and describes developments for enhanced data collection in 2015. These summary findings from the 2014 survey should be viewed in conjunction with the 2013 survey results (Chandler & McVeigh, 2014).
Alcohol: a toolkit for improving care.
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine. (2015) The Royal College of Emergency Medicine.
1. Promotion of best practice in the area of alcohol management - methods of screening and complete management of the patient with alcohol related illness and injury in EDs.
2. Advancement of safe and effective care in this area - advising on approaches on how to care for this subset of patients and sharing best practice with the use of medications.
3. Education and training of Emergency Medicine doctors - by provision of guidelines and advocating training.
Draft Council conclusions on the implementation of the EU Action Plan on Drugs 2013-2016 regarding minimum quality standards in drug demand reduction in the European Union.
Council of the European Union. (2015) Council of the European Union, Brussels .
Alternatives to punishment for drug-using offenders.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg .
European drug report 2015: trends and developments.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015) Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg .
Alcohol advertising and sponsorship in formula one: a dangerous cocktail.
Eurocare, Institute of Alcohol Studies, Monash University. (2015) Eurocare. 18 p.
Treatment of cannabis-related disorders in Europe.EMCDDA insights series no 17.
Schettino, J. and Leuschner, F. and Kasten, L. and Tossmann, P. and Hoch, E. and Ferri, M. and Guarita, B. and Simon, R.. European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2015) Publications Office of the European Union.
Wound botulism in people who inject heroin in Norway and the United Kingdom.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2015) ECDC, Stockholm .
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the EMCDDA released a joint risk assessment on wound botulism among people who inject heroin in Norway and the United Kingdom in February 2015. At the time of publication, a total of 23 cases of wound botulism had been reported in the two countries. The source of infection was thought to be a batch of contaminated heroin.
Health at a glance 2014.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2014) OECD Publishing .
Health at a Glance: Europe 2014 presents the most recent data on health status, risk factors to health, and access to high-quality care in all 28 EU member states, candidate countries (with the exception of Albania due to limited data availability) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. The selection of indicators is based mainly on the European Core Health Indicators (ECHI), developed by the European Commission. This edition includes a new chapter on access to care, assessing where possible the impact of the economic crisis on financial barriers, geographic barriers and waiting times.
Children’s recognition of alcohol marketing.
Alcohol Concern. (2015) Alcohol marketing briefing. Alcohol Concern, London
Children as young as 10 years old are highly familiar with alcohol brands and televised alcohol advertising. The study shows football clubs and tournaments are strongly associated with the beer brands that sponsor them, particularly by boys. Existing advertising codes for alcohol are designed to prevent targeting of under-18s, but children appear to be consuming high volumes of alcohol marketing nevertheless. More effective controls may be needed to ensure alcohol marketing messages only reach adult audiences.
Guide to the European Union (Prevention of Sharps Injuries in the Healthcare Sector) Regulations 2014.
Health and Safety Authority. (2014) Health and Safety Authority
The purpose of this guide is to provide practical information on the implementation of the European Union (Prevention of Sharps Injuries in the Healthcare Sector) Regulations 2014, hereafter referred to as ‘’the Regulations’’. The information is aimed at employers, managers, employees, safety representatives, health and safety practitioners and other interested parties in the healthcare sector.
Pregnancy and opioid use: strategies for treatment, EMCDDA Papers.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2014) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg .
Illicit opioid consumption during pregnancy brings with it the risk of an increase in obstetric complications for the mother and a range of potential dangers for the child, both before and after birth. The primary goal when treating opioid dependence in pregnant women is to stabilise the patient and psychosocially assisted opioid substitution treatment is the preferred first-line therapy for this group.
Several combinations of substitution medicines and psychosocial approaches are available. This paper reviews methadone, buprenorphine and slow-release oral morphine, used in a range of combinations with cognitive behavioural approaches and contingency management in order to identify the strengths of each medicine and method.
Alcohol consumption, life course transitions and health in later life.
Holdsworth, Clare and Mendonca, Marina and Frisher, Martin and Shelton, Nicola and Pikhart, Hynek and de Oliveira, Cesar (2014) University of Keele and University College, London.
Older people tend to drink less than any other age group. However, in recent years British survey data on alcohol consumption has shown that while younger age groups have experienced a decline in the quantity and frequency of consumption, drinking behaviours among the elderly have not declined in the same way. This means that as the population is ageing, older people are responsible for a greater proportion of alcohol consumption. Yet relatively little is known about the (a) diversity of patterns of drinking in later life; (b) how drinking is associated with key socio-demographic characteristics and health conditions; (c) and how drinking changes over time and which life course events, such as retirement and partnership change, might influence this process. This research, funded by the Economic Social Research Council as part of the Secondary Data Analysis Initiative, explores these questions to improve understanding of drinking in later life and to inform possible interventions and guidelines targeting older people’s drinking.
European drug report 2014: trends and developments.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2014) Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg.
How many new drugs were detected in Europe over the last year? Is cannabis getting stronger? How many Europeans have ever used an illicit drug? What are the latest drug policy developments in the region? These are just some of the questions explored in the European Drug Report: Trends and developments. This report provides a top-level overview of the long-term drug-related trends and developments at European level, while homing in on emerging problems in specific countries. Such a perspective is valuable, as it allows differing national experiences to be understood within the broader European context.
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Alcohol and inequities. Guidance for addressing inequities in alcohol-related harm.
Loring, Belinda (2014) World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.
This policy guidance aims to support European policy-makers to improve the design and implementation of policies to reduce inequities in alcohol-related harm. The WHO European Region has the highest level of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm in the world. Within European countries, the burden of alcohol-related harm falls more heavily upon certain groups. Reducing health inequities is a key strategic objective of Health 2020 – the European policy framework for health and well-being endorsed by the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region in 2012.
European questionnaire on drug use among prisoners (EQDP).
Montanari, L.,Royuela, L. Rosa, M., Vicente, J. (EMCDDA) (2014) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
This is a first common questionnaire on drug use among prisoners at European level. The questionnaire is the results of two years of work in the field of drugs and prison, which has included the agreement on a methodological framework or monitoring drug and prison in Europe, the analysis of existing questionnaires and a discussion among high level experts from several European countries and international organizations.
Exploring methamphetamine trends in Europe.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2014) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
Concerns about the availability and use of methamphetamine in Europe have been growing for some time. Historically, the use of methamphetamine has been confined largely to the Czech Republic and Slovakia; however, recent signs of the spread of methamphetamine linked to different European countries have sparked further investigation of this topic. The methodology used is based on the triangulation of data collected using a number of investigative approaches and from multiple sources.
Review of social determinants and the health divide in the WHO European Region. Final report.
UCL Institute of Health Equity. (2013) WHO Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagan.
This review provides guidance on what is possible and what works, to be considered within the specific circumstances and settings of individual countries. Its recommendations are practical and focused. One response to addressing health inequities open to all is to ensure universal coverage of health care. Another is to focus on behaviour – smoking, diet and alcohol – that cause much of these health inequities but are also socially determined. The review endorses both these responses. But the review recommendations extend further – to the causes of the causes: the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age and inequities in power, money and resources that give rise to them.
Hepatitis C avoidance in injection drug users: A typology of possible protective practices.
McGowan, Catherine and Harris, Magdalena and Rhodes, Tim (2013) PLoS ONE, 8 (10) e77038. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0077038
Introduction: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents a serious public health concern. People who inject drugs (PWID) are at particular risk and nearly half (45%) of PWID in England may be infected. HCV prevention interventions have only had moderate impact on the prevalence of HCV in this population. Using qualitative methods, we sought to detail the protective practices potentially linked to HCV avoidance among PWID, and explore the motivations for these.
Eyes on ages. A research on alcohol age limit policies in European Member States. Legislation, enforcement and research.
Mulder, Juul and de Greef, J (2013) European Commission, Utrecht.
The consumption of alcohol by adolescents is of concern for a number of reasons, like brain damage, alcohol dependence and an increased risk of an alcohol related death. In order to reduce the availability of the toxic substance alcohol, a higher compliance with minimum age limits for alcohol should be achieved. In turn, the higher compliance with the law will contribute to the prevention and reduction of the harm from alcohol use (specifically among adolescents). In this report an overview is given of age limit policies for alcohol in the EU. Good practices at the level of legislation, enforcement and research were found all over Europe to reduce the availability of alcohol for minors.
A review of the science base to support the development of health warnings for tobacco packages.
Sambrook Research International. (2009) United Kingdom
The purpose of this report is to provide the European Commission with a review of the scientific knowledge on health and tobacco labelling, an evaluation of the impact of the existing textual and pictorial warnings and a proposal for warning messages based on a state-of-the-art knowledge on tobacco-related harm.
Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament of the Council on new psychoactive substances.
European Commission. (2013) European Commission, Brussels.
A growing number of new psychoactive substances, which imitate the effects of substances controlled under the UN Conventions on Drugs and are marketed as legal alternatives to them (‘legal highs’), are emerging and spreading fast in the internal market. These substances, which act on the central nervous system, modifying mental functions, also have uses in industry or research - as active substances for medicines, for instance. A rising number of individuals, in particular young people, consume new psychoactive substances, despite the risks that they may pose, which may be comparable to those posed by UN-controlled drugs. During the past years, one new psychoactive substance was reported every week in the EU, and the rapid pace of notification is expected to continue in the coming years. These substances are sold freely, unless public authorities subject them to various restriction measures, underpinned by administrative or criminal sanctions, because of the risks that they pose when consumed by humans. Such national restriction measures, which may differ depending on the Member State and on the substance, can hamper trade in the internal market and hinder the development of future industrial or commercial uses.
New psychoactive substances are not subjected to control measures under the UN Conventions on Drugs, unlike psychoactive substances such as cocaine or amphetamines, although they could be considered for UN-level control on the basis of a risk assessment conducted by the World Health Organisation at the request of at least one UN Member State.
North American drug prevention programmes: are they feasible in European cultures and contexts?
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2013)
Some commentators argue that programmes developed in North America (Canada and the US) are unlikely to work in European countries, due to differing cultural contexts and because most of the evidence for their effectiveness comes from North America. This Thematic paper presents experiences of adapting and implementing four innovative and proven North American drug prevention programmes in Europe, showing the clear potential of transferring such programmes and avoiding the cliché of culture as a barrier to implementation.
Status report on alcohol and health in 35 European countries 2013
WHO Regional Office for Europe. (2013)
People in the WHO European Region consume the most alcohol per head in the world. In the European Union (EU), alcohol accounts for about 120 000 premature deaths per year: 1 in 7 in men and 1 in 13 in women. Most countries in the Region have adopted policies, strategies and plans to reduce alcohol-related harm. In 2012, the WHO Regional Office for Europe collected information on alcohol consumption and related harm, and countries policy responses to contribute to the Global Information System for Alcohol and Health; this report presented a selection of the results for 35 countries – EU Member States and candidate countries, Norway and Switzerland – individually and in groups distinguished by their drinking patterns and traditions.
European Drug Report 2013
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2013) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
The agency’s annual overview of the European drug situation is presented in a new information package designed to be ‘more timely, interactive and interlinked’ and which replaces the former annual report. The shorter, graphic-rich report summarises the latest trends across the 27 EU Member States, Norway, Croatia and Turkey. Accompanying the European Drug Report 2013 are a series online interactive Perspectives on Drugs (PODs) providing deeper insights into important issues.
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Drug prevention interventions targeting minority ethnic populations: issues raised by 33 case studies.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2013) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
This Thematic paper contains the results of a study that examined drug prevention interventions for minority ethnic populations in 29 European countries. A total of 33 interventions were reported to the study and the issues they raise are presented and discussed in the paper. The results will inform the EMCDDA’s plans for 2013–15 in terms of monitoring drug prevention interventions particularly in three areas: data collection, design and quality, and the dissemination of knowledge.
European exchange on Brief Interventions and Motivational Interviewing for people using drugs.
European exchange meeting, 23 January 2013, Lisbon.
The EMCDDA page provides the minutes and four presentations from a meeting held to discuss brief interventions and motivational interviewing for people using drugs. ‘Early intervention’ is repeatedly mentioned in EU drugs strategies and is supported by evidence especially for alcohol users, but little is known about how and for which target groups it is actually being used in member states. Little known are also the possibilities of using established techniques for alcohol users like Brief Intervention and Motivational Interviewing in other settings and for users of other substances, even though a recent review found some evidence in reducing substance use if compared with no intervention. Policy makers and professionals might need to know more about how to implement these strategies in larger scale and about the obstacles to be expected when passing scientific findings into practice.
Further insights into aspects of the EU illicit drugs market: summaries and key findings
Trautmann, F., Kilmer, B., Turnbull, PJ.. (2013)
The economic crisis is expected to have a major impact on the drugs market, for example through an increase of demand for illicit drugs, according to the findings of a study published by the European Commission. This study reveals that more young people are expected to sell or even produce drugs – especially home grown cannabis – to make money. But the economic crisis is also expected to lead to cuts in budgets devoted to drug policy, in particular for treatment and harm reduction measures. This study also offers insights into the impact of policies targeting drug use or drug supply and into the operations of the EU's illicit drugs market, revealing that the internet is becoming more and more important for distributing drugs. The research focussed on the following four drugs: cannabis, cocaine, heroin and Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS). In some Member States other drugs might be important, but they either contribute little to the total EU market for illicit drugs or they are not the subject of a lot of explicit policy making.
EU drug markets report: a strategic analysis
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Europol. (2013) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg
The EU drug markets report is the first comprehensive overview of illicit drug markets in the European Union. It covers issues such as production, consumer markets, trafficking, organised crime and policy responses, along with a review of the markets for heroin, cocaine, cannabis, amphetamine, methamphetamine, ecstasy and new psychoactive substances. It concludes with concrete action points for the areas where the current EU response to the drug market and its consequent harms may be improved.
Analysis of the data sources, numbers and characteristics of cocaine-related DRD cases reported in Special Mortality Registries, or eventually in General Mortality Registries (GMR) when necessary
Corkery, J. (2012).European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon
There have been increased numbers of cocaine-related deaths reported in some European countries since the early 1990s and there are indications that cocaine deaths are more difficult to define, detect and record as such in mortality registries, and more particularly in some countries’ General Mortality Registries due to coding practices. This project aimed to describe the trend in numbers of cocaine-related deaths reported to mortality registries over 15 years in some European countries. In addition, it aimed to provide information on the demographic and drug-use characteristics of recent cases. Nineteen countries responded to a survey on cocaine- related deaths.
2012 Annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2012) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policymakers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.
Prevalence of daily cannabis use in the European Union and Norway
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2012) Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg
This report brings together, for the first time in Europe, an integrated overview of the prevalence of intensive cannabis use, defined as daily or almost daily cannabis use (use on 20 or more days in the month preceding survey). Self-reported data regarding frequency of cannabis use from large, probabilistic, nationally representative samples of general population surveys from 20 countries, representing more than 83 % of the population of EU and Norway, were collected through two rounds of ad hoc data collection in 2004 and 2007 and through a routine, standard data collection instrument since 2010.
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Health at a glance: Europe 2012.
OECD. (2012). OECD Publishing, Paris
This second edition of Health at a Glance: Europe presents the most recent key indicators of health and health systems across 35 countries: the 27 European Union member states, five candidate countries and three European Free Trade Association countries
Social reintegration and employment: evidence and interventions for drug users in treatment
Sumnall, H., Brotherhood, A., (2012). EMCDDA insights series no 13
In order to help drug users become full members of society following treatment, measures are needed that address the issues of housing, education, vocational training and employment as part of their recovery. This report considers existing interventions targeting this vulnerable social group. It also provides a set of conclusions targeted at policymakers and drug practitioners, in order to help them develop coherent and comprehensive social integration strategies. Examples of ‘what works’ in practice are a vital first step in developing evidence-based guidelines for future interventions.
Report of the International Narcotics Control Board for 2012
International Narcotics Control Board, United Nations, New York (2013)
National drug-related public expenditure online resource
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (2012)
This is the first set of national profiles that the EMCDDA has produced on drug-related public expenditure. The profiles are based on the sections on public expenditure provided by the 27 EU Member States, Croatia, Turkey and Norway in the national reports. Information given in the replies to the 2011 structured questionnaire on ‘Drug policy, evaluation and coordination’ and the available literature on this topic have also been reviewed and incorporated. These profiles aim to provide information on four main topics for each country.
Preventing opioid overdoses in Europe: A critical assessment of known risk factors and preventative measures
The AMPHORA project
This ebook with the key findings of the AMPHORA project is timely, because the new EC strategy on alcohol is under discussion. Our research shows we are still lacking a good monitoring system to control alcohol-related harm (Rehm, 2012)
Preventing opioid overdoses in Europe: A critical assessment of known risk factors and preventative measures
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction
This report is the outcome of a project into opioid overdoses. The remit was to focus on finding practical methods of overdose prevention. In order to fulfil this remit, a critical review of existing knowledge on overdose prevention was conducted. The report adds value to existing information by developing a methodology to classify and analyse risk and protective factors stratified by those involved (drug users, observers and organisations)
Continued cannabis use and risk of incidence and persistence of psychotic symptoms: 10 year follow-up cohort study
Kuepper R et al, British Medical Journal, March 2011
This study sought to determine whether use of cannabis in adolescence increases the risk for psychotic outcomes by affecting the incidence and persistence of subclinical expression of psychosis in the general population (that is, expression of psychosis below the level required for a clinical diagnosis). The study gound that cannabis use is a risk factor for the development of incident psychotic symptoms. Continued cannabis use might increase the risk for psychotic disorder by impacting on the persistence of symptoms.
Contribution of smoking-related and alcohol-related deaths to the gender gap in mortality: evidence from 30 European countries
McCartney G, Mahmood L, Leyland AH, et al. British Medical Journal, April 2010
Smoking continues to be the most important cause of gender differences in mortality across Europe, but its importance as an explanation for this difference is often overshadowed by presumptions about other explanations. Changes in smoking patterns by gender suggest that the gender gap in mortality will diminish in the coming decades. This study compared the magnitude of the gender gap in all-cause mortality in 30 European countries and assess the contribution of smoking-related and alcohol-related deaths.
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Teenage drinking cultures
Andrew Percy et al, for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, February 2011
This report investigates the influence of friendship groups on teenagers' drinking. The researchers identified eight groups of friends covering a mix of social class, gender and education, using data from the Belfast Youth Development Study. The 41 participants – aged 18 or 19 when interviewed – were asked about their drinking between the ages of 12 and 18. In this way, the researchers construct a picture of the groups’ drinking culture and how it developed as the friends grew older.
Status Report on Alcohol and Health 2011 - European Country Profiles
World Health Organization, 2011
These country overviews, from The Global status report on alcohol and health (2011), present a comprehensive perspective on country consumption of alcohol, patterns of drinking, health consequences and policy responses in Europe.Download
2010 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2010
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.
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2010 EMCDDA Statistical Bulletin 2010
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2010
The Statistical bulletin is published yearly by the EMCDDA and provides access to the most recent statistical data relating to the drugs situation in Europe. Statistics are organised by category. In addition to the statistical tables and graphs, an overview of the data is provided for each category.
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Problem amphetamine and methamphetamine use in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2010
Focusing on European countries where amphetamine or methamphetamine is an important part of the drug problem, this Selected issue looks at the current situation in the light of the historical development of amphetamines use since the introduction of these substances as medicines in the 1930s.
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Treatment and care for older drug users
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2010
'Drug problems have no age limits' -- This special review published alongside the 2010 Annual report, reveals why drug use is no longer simply a ‘youth phenomenon’. Europe is experiencing a pronounced ageing of its population, around a quarter of which will be aged 65 or over by 2050.
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Cut: A Guide to Adulterants, Bulking Agents and other Contaminants found in Illicit Drugs
Claire Cole et al, Faculty of Health and Applied Social Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, UK, 2010
This document is an evidence-based overview of adulterants (here, any substance or organism found in illicit drugs at the point of purchase other than the active ingredient, their effects on health and the development of messages and other public health interventions to reduce their impact.
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Mephedrone: The future of drug dealing
Mike Power for Drugscope, 2010
Chemists are staying one step ahead of drug laws by toying with the chemical make-up of illegal stimulants such as ecstasy, speed and crystal meth to make an increasingly popular range of legal highs – changing the way drugs are being bought and sold.
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Cocaine: a European Union perspective on the global context
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), Europol, Lisbon, 2010
This report provides an overview of what is known about how cocaine is produced and trafficked into the European Union. It aims to provide a better understanding of the actors involved, the routes taken, and the scale of the problem in Europe. It also reviews some of the supply reduction responses already developed at European level. Its findings are based on the latest data and analysis available from specialised European and international organisations, NGOs and scholars.
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Harm reduction: evidence, impacts and challenges
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), Lisbon, 2010
The EMCDDA’s 10th scientific monograph, entitled Harm reduction: evidence, impacts and challenges provides a comprehensive overview of the harm reduction field. Part I of the monograph looks back at the emergence of harm reduction approaches and their diffusion, and explores the concept from different perspectives, including international organisations, academic researchers and drug users. Part II is dedicated to current evidence and impacts of harm reduction and illustrates how the concept has broadened to cover a wide range of behaviours and harms. Part III addresses the current challenges and innovations in the field. The core audience of the monograph comprises policymakers, healthcare professionals working with drug users, as well as the wider interested public.
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Polydrug Use: Patterns and Responses
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2009 selected issue
This 'Selected issue' looks at the concomitant or consecutive use of different licit and illicit drugs (polydrug use) among adolescents, young adults and problem drug users. Data from school and general population surveys, and on drug treatment entrants and drug-related deaths are analysed to describe the many forms and consequences of this widespread pattern of drug use. The responses to polydrug use in Europe are reviewed in the light of the scientific literature, with the aim of identifying the most effective interventions.
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2009 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2009
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.Download
Drug Offences: Sentencing and other Outcomes
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2009 selected issue
sentences that offenders receive for drug law violations across the European Union are examined for the first time in this ‘Selected issue’. By analysing the most recent year’s statistics, this report attempts to answer the question: What is the most likely outcome for an offender after being stopped by police for a drug law offence of use or personal possession, or supply or trafficking?
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Women's voices – experiences and perceptions of women facing drug problems
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) Thematic paper, Lisbon 2009
Epidemiological studies routinely collect quantitative data on gender differences in drug use (e.g. prevalence, mortality), but far less is published on the qualitative aspects of female drug problems. This review presents quotations gleaned from interviews with women in eight countries. Through these testimonies, the report illustrates how qualitative research can provide glimpses into the experiences and perceptions of women facing drug issues that statistics alone cannot provide.
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EMCDDA 2009 Thematic paper: Understanding the 'Spice' phenomenon
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2009
This Thematic paper reflects the situation as of the first trimester of 2009 and is intended to provide insight and, as far as it is possible, evidence-based answers to the following questions: What do we know about the nature, availability and use of 'Spice' products; What do we know about synthetic cannabinoids found in ‘Spice’ products; Why did it take such a long time to establish the psychoactive principles in the ‘Spice’ products; Are those products dangerous for the consumer?; Is there a specific demand and will the market of non-scheduled synthetic (designer) cannabinoids with a THC-like mode of action (e.g. acting as CB1 receptors) continue to develop?; and Where are the synthetic cannabinoids produced, and how are they added to the herbal products?
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Methamphetamine: a European Union perspective in the global context
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction & EUROPOL, Lisbon, 2009
This publication is the first in a series dedicated to prevalent illicit synthetic stimulant drugs, also known as amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). This study focuses on the supply and use of methamphetamine in Europe, set in a global context.
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Addiction neurobiology: ethical and social implications
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), Lisbon 2009
This report reviews developments in the neuroscience of addiction, explores how they might affect the way we view and treat drug problems, and considers the issues that they raise for drug policy in Europe. In language that is easily accessible, the report presents the complex brain processes involved in addition and the ethical implications inherent to current addiction research.
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Preventing later substance use disorders in at-risk children and adolescents
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), Thematic paper, Lisbon 2009
This review on indicated prevention adds to the current knowledge and understanding of risk factors in the development of later drug problems and dependence, focusing on the mental health and behavioural problems that develop during childhood.
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National Drug-Related Research in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2008 selected issue
Drug-related research is crucial to understanding Europe's drug problems. Research enables Europe to learn lessons from the past, by identifying historical patterns of drug use, and studying the cycles and variations in the use of substances. Research sharpens Europe’s awareness and monitoring of the present. It provides surveys and data on the scope and scale of drug problems, and looks into emerging trends and new patterns in drug use. Research helps Europe to prepare for the future, by looking at practical issues such as resource allocation, best practices, the piloting of innovative approaches to managing problem drug use.
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Towards a Better Understanding of Drug-Related Public Expenditure in Europe
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2008 selected issue
A confirmed political will to address the drugs problem in Europe lies not only in the development of appropriate policies, but in the amount of public funds assigned to implement such policies. One of the aims of the EU drugs action plan (2005–08) is to produce estimates of public expenditure on drug-related issues. Doing so is a challenge, due to the range of political structures and government accounting systems present in Europe.
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Vulnerable Groups of Young People
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2008 selected issue
Social policy in Europe has long identified disadvantaged populations who manifest potential for social exclusion. These ‘vulnerable groups’ are specific groups among the wider population that may be more prone to a range of problems, from ill health, substance use and poor diet, to lower educational achievement. Groups of young people identified as vulnerable — examples include children in care institutions or homeless young people — might be prone to earlier, more frequent, or more problematic drug use. They might also experience faster progression to problem drug use.
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GHB and its precursor GBL: An Emerging Trends Case Study
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2008
Use of GHB, also commonly referred to as 'liquid ecstasy', surfaced on the recreational nightlife scene in some parts of Europe, the USA and Australia during the 1990s. It is usually consumed in recreational nightlife settings, where it is taken orally in liquid form for sought-after effects that are close to alcohol. More recently, there have been reports of direct consumption of the precursor chemical, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) which is rapidly converted into GHB in the body.
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2008 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2008
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.Download
2007 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2007
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.Download
The 2007 ESPAD Report - Substance Use Among Students in 35 European Countries
Björn Hibell et al, The Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs, Stockholm, Sweden, March 2009
Alcohol and Drug Use Among European 17-18 Year Old Students – Data From the ESPAD Project
Barbro Andersson et al, the Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs and the Pompidou Group at the Council of Europe. Stockholm, Sweden, February 2007
The 2007 European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) Report – Results for Ireland
Mark Morgan and Kate Brand, St. Patrick’s College, Dublin
Domestic Violence and Abuse experienced by Children and Young People living in Families with Alcohol Problems: Results from a Cross-European Study
ENCARE (the European Network for Children Affected by Risky Environments within the family) Richard Velleman and Danielle Reuber, 2007
This project set out to look at children and young people across Europe, to discover what impacts having parents with both of these problems combined had on children, and then to suggest ways of improving practice and policy, within individual countries and across the EU, that would help these children.
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Cocaine and Crack Cocaine: a growing public health issue
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2007 selected issue
In a Selected issue on ‘Cocaine and crack cocaine: a growing public health issue’ the EMCDDA shows that, in some European countries, there has been a marked increase in recent years in the use of cocaine, in treatment demands for cocaine problems and in seizures of the drug. The potential for cocaine use to have a major impact on public health is examined and special attention given to the health consequences of cocaine use, which are often not well recognised in existing reporting systems. Also examined are the challenges to providing effective treatment for cocaine and crack cocaine dependence.
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Treatment of problem cocaine use: a review of the literature
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, May 2007
Previously perceived as a drug for the wealthy, cocaine use has become more prevalent in Europe in the last decade. Problem use of the drug has likewise experienced a strong surge, and this has put strain on providers of drug treatment. Increasingly, practitioners need to provide evidence-based treatment services to a heterogeneous population of problem cocaine users.
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Drugs and Driving
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2007 selected issue
Since the late 1990s, much European and world research has addressed the issue of driving under the influence of psychoactive substances. This Selected issue on ‘Drugs and driving’ focuses on driving after taking cannabis and benzodiazepines. Country responses were analysed to determine the prevalence of these substances among drivers and studied in the context of policy and legislation, law enforcement and prevention.
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Drug use and related problems among very young people (under 15 years old)
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2007 selected issue
Evidence suggests that early experimentation with psychoactive substances, including alcohol and tobacco, is associated with an increased risk of developing drug problems later in life. In a Selected issue on 'Drug use and related problems among very young people', the EMCDDA focuses on the prevalence and patterns of substance use among the under-15s and on available responses in terms of legislation, prevention and treatment.
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2006 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2006
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.Download
Hallucinogenic Mushrooms: An Emerging Trend Case Study
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2006
Hallucinogenic mushrooms grow wild in much of Europe, yet it appears that most recreationally used mushrooms are cultivated rather than picked wild. Mushrooms are sold both as fresh and dried products and for home cultivation using mushroom prints, spawnbags and growkits. Mushrooms are typically chopped and ingested or brewed in tea.
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European Drug Policy: Extended Beyond Illicit Drugs
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2006 selected issue
Nearly all European countries now frame their drug policy initiatives within an overall national drugs strategy or action plan. An in-depth analysis of drug policy in Europe in this Selected issue reveals a broadening of the scope of these drug strategies to encompass licit addictive substances, such as alcohol, tobacco and medicines, as well as illicit drugs.
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A Gender Perspective on Drug Use and Responding to Drug Problems
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2006 selected issue
The influence of gender not only on patterns and levels of drug consumption in Europe but also on how responses to drug problems are planned and implemented is explored in this Selected issue. Based on a scientific analysis of the available data, it concludes that policymakers, professionals and scientists must always take gender into consideration in the planning of research, analysis, interventions and policy in the drugs field.
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Developments in Drug Use Within Recreational Settings
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2006 selected issue
This Selected issue covers all aspects of drug use by young people in music and dance settings, providing data on prevalence and patterns of use, drug availability and the role of the Internet in drug supply and promotion. The risk factors for this type of drug use are outlined as are the health consequences of drug use in these settings. Responses to drug use in recreational settings are covered in depth, both in terms of legislation at national and European levels and in terms of drug prevention programmes.
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2005 Annual Report on the State of the Drugs Problem in the European Union
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2005
The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policy-makers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures.
Drug-Related Public Nuisance – Trends in Policy and Preventative Measures
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2005 selected issue
This Selected issue is not intended to present a systematic and exhaustive review either of all possible definitions of drug-related public nuisance or of all measures, provisions and policies aimed at reducing the problem in the European Union, nor does it aim to reflect precisely the situation regarding public nuisance in each of the countries concerned. Rather, it seeks to contribute to our understanding of the issues and problems related to a new – and somewhat still limited – area for intervention in Member States, candidate countries and Norway. This document aims to present the first EMCDDA qualitative insight into an emerging concern within drug policy debate, at both national and European levels.
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Alternatives to Imprisonment – Targeting Offending Problem Drug Users in the EU
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2005 selected issue
The alternatives to prison that may be offered to drug-using offenders cover a range of sanctions that may delay, avoid, replace or complement prison sentences for those drug users who have committed an offence normally sanctioned with imprisonment by national law. In this Selected issue, the focus is on those measures that have a drug-related treatment component. It will describe the political and legal background, the application and implementation, including common problems, and the effects of treatment as an alternative to imprisonment.
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Buprenorphine – Treatment, Misuse and Prescription Practices
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2005 selected issue
Since the mid-1990s buprenorphine has increasingly become available in Europe as an alternative to methadone for the treatment of opiate dependence. In this Selected issue, the reasons why clinicians are attracted to this drug, as well as the costs and benefits of buprenorphine in comparison with other treatment options, are explored in detail, and, for the first time, the increasing popularity of buprenorphine for the treatment of opiate dependence in many European countries is documented.
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