14 Terrifying Statistics About Drug Use Worldwide [Infographic]

Perhaps the most terrifying statistic that continuously dominates the news is the seemingly increasing number of people that are using illegal drugs. It is estimated that as many as 246 million people worldwide (an increase of 38 million people since back in 2007) use or are addicted to illegal drugs. When you look at the numbers presented for the U.S. it’s equally as terrifying. It is estimated through a National Survey on Drug Use and Health that 19.9 million Americans (or 8% of the population aged 12 or older) used illegal drugs in the month prior to the survey.

In an attempt to gain a better understanding of patterns of drug use worldwide, Haven House Addiction Treatment gathered data on the state of drug use worldwide. The findings were, predictably, a little bit depressing. Some of the data gathered also had deep surprises. For example:

Men account for 2/3 drug users worldwide.
Australians have the highest use of ecstasy usage.
El Salvador has a huge problem with amphetamine, with 3.5% of its population using it.

These numbers are increasing every day and even though the reasons may vary the data only tells part of the story. It’s important to remember the many lives that are affected by the scourge of drug addiction worldwide.

Furthermore, a terrifying pattern emerges where cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamines are the preferred drugs. [pullquote]The statistics also show that men are three times more likely to use these drugs than women.[/pullquote] Although, research shows that drug use only causes 0.4% of all deaths worldwide per year, it’s important to understand that the deaths recorded are only deaths directly linked to drugs. Yes, the number may seem small, however, this number is infinitely higher when you add drug-related diseases etc.

Taking all of these statistics into consideration and the worldwide drug use forecast may seem terrifying. We have to remember that there have never been as many treatments and rehabilitating methods available than there are now.

Each year the worldwide population is growing by around 1.5% and, unfortunately, drug use will increase. But, treatment and rehabilitation also get more efficient and the results are looking increasingly brighter every year.