B.C. GOVERNMENT UNIFIES EFFORTS TO CUT CRYSTAL-METH USE

VICTORIA -- The B.C. government has created an action plan to reduce
the use and harmful effects of crystal meth, an inexpensive, highly
addictive street drug often made with household toxic chemicals such
as floor stripper.

Susan Brice, minister of state for mental health and addiction
services, said B.C.'s six health authorities will work with six
provincial ministries, the police and the justice system to educate
the public, identify high-risk populations and reduce the harm caused
by the drug.

"The youths who are really involved with this drug are those who are
considered street youth, those who are involved in the rave scene,
some gay males, young people who are looking to use it to curb weight
gain, these types of things," said Brice.

But she said the good news is there hasn't been an increase in the
drug's use.

Crystal meth is known to cause high anxiety in users, memory loss and
permanent psychotic symptoms.

It is often used with other substances such as cocaine or crack,
heroin or alcohol, increasing the risk of injury or death related to
overdoses, accidents or violence.