By the
end of June 2011, Vietnam
had around 149,000 drug addicts, nearly triple the figure in 1994.
In 2010, nearly 70 percent of new drug addicts were less than 30 years old. Every year there are an additional 6,000 people becoming addicted to drugs and the number of female drug users is also on the rise.
A VOV reporter interviewed Do Thi Ninh Xuan, Deputy Head of the Department for Prevention of Social Evils under the Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA), on this issue.
Reporter: There is an increasing number of young drug addicts, particularly females. Could you explain why?
Ms Xuan: As many drug users fail to kick their habit for good, the rate of relapse has continued to rise. Today it is difficult to detect drug users because they are using new kinds of drugs, such as ecstasy and amphetamines, which do not show any obvious symptoms. These new drugs are often used in bars or discotheques to create feelings of pleasure, empathy, warmth and happiness. They also increase sensitivity to music, make people more emotionally open, and have a stimulating, physical effect.
In addition, many prostitutes become drug addicts due to unsafe sexual activities.
Reporter: The relapse rate has remained high in recent years, reaching 75 percent. Is it possible to reduce the rate?
Do Thi Ninh Xuan
Ms Xuan: To increase the effectiveness of detoxification and rehabilitation, the whole society needs to lend a helping hand. The State has invested billions of Vietnam dong in vocational training centres to help former drug addicts get jobs and reintegrate into the community. However, this is no easy task as most drug users are not in good health and have low levels of education. Negative social attitudes towards these people still exist.
Businesses should understand that providing drug addicts with jobs means easing a burden on society.
Reporter: Could you talk about what measures government agencies are taking to deal with drug-related issues?
Ms Xuan: We are mapping out a zoning plan for detoxification and rehabilitation centres, with a focus on residential and community-based drug rehabilitation.
Former drug users will be able to attend vocational training courses in their residential areas or nearby provinces.
We are also compiling a document on drug detoxification and organizing training courses on this issue. The document will be delivered to the University of Labour and Social Affairs, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, and institutes dealing with issues related to women and juveniles.
Fighting off the scourge of drug abuse is a long-term task that requires coordinated efforts by drug users, their families and the community.
Reporter: Thank you.
(VOV)
