2007 Annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe launched in Brussels today

Positive messages from EU drugs report marred by high levels of drug-related deaths and rising cocaine use

(22.11.2007, LISBON ) After over a decade of rising drug use, Europe may now be entering a more stable phase. Not only are there signs that heroin use and drug injecting have become generally less common, but new data suggest that levels of cannabis use may now be stabilising after a sustained period of growth.

Nevertheless, positive messages are marred by high levels of drug-related deaths and rising cocaine use. These comments come today as the agency launches its 2007 Annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe in Brussels.

Cannabis: Use stabilising and signs of popularity waning among the young. But intensive cannabis use causing health concerns – around 3 million may be using it on a daily, or almost daily, basis.

Cocaine: Estimates rise again. Around 4.5 million Europeans report using the drug in the last year. Record cocaine seizures in Europe: 107 tonnes in 2005, up over 45% on quantities seized in 2004.

HIV: Overall positive assessment, but 3 500 new infections among drug injectors in 2005 underline need for continued efforts. Up to 200 000 drug injectors live with HIV. Up to 1 million live with HCV, ‘Europe’s hidden epidemic’.

Deaths: Europe risks failing to meet targets to reduce drug-related deaths. Between 7 000 and 8 000 overdose deaths per year, with no downward trend detectable in the most recent data.

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