DRUG ADDICTION ON RISE IN UZBEK EAST

TASHKENT - The number of drug addicts in Uzbekistan's eastern Fergana
Region rose between 1999 and 2000, as did the numbers seeking treatment at
the regional drug center, the local newspaper, Diydor reported, quoting the
center's chief physician.

In an interview, the doctor said: "We are worried that there is an increase
rather than a decline in the numbers addicted to opium. The same is true of
other narcotic substances. In 1999 we registered 216 drug addicts
throughout the region, whereas last year the figure reached 428."

"Also, the number of those coming to the center for treatment is rising
with each passing year. Saddest of all is the fact that juveniles are
falling into the trap of the 'white death'," the doctor added.