Users a risk to community: AMA
AUSTRALIAN Medical Association Queensland president Dr Shaun Rudd said the drug epidemic gripping regional communities had been a long-standing concern for the organisation.
He said drug users not only posed a risk to themselves but to the greater population.
"The increasing rate of methamphetamine use is particularly disturbing due to its high rate of dependence and the associated health problems," he said.
"Around half of all users experience physical health problems, such as weight loss or insomnia."
Dr Rudd said even more concerning was that about 75% of dependent users experienced serious mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety and psychosis.
"Tackling the problem of illicit drugs requires ongoing education and initiatives about their health and social consequences as well as appropriate supports in place for those trying to quit," he said.
