Size and Extent of the Problem

Abstract

An accurate and specific description of the size L and extent of nonnarcotic addiction is a most difficult matter since the drugs are obtained through illicit traffic which cannot be controlled under the present law. Complete data are simply not available for documentation and analysis. Indeed, adequate reports on this topic are not available from other countries either. A complete evaluation of the problem would require data such as the following: (1) The quantity of each sedative and stimulant produced. (2) The channels of distribution for each product with quantitative data that accounts for all of the product produced. (3) The incidence of habituation and addiction to these drugs in the general population. (4) The number of persons annually admitted to hospitals because of acute or chronic intoxication from these drugs. (5) The annual number of arrests for the offering of these drugs for sale under circumstances that do not