HEROIN SAID TO BE MAKING INROADS AMONG U.S. TEENS

CHICAGO, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Heroin use among U.S. teenagers is growing,
although the total number of those using the drug remains relatively small,
according to a study published on Monday.

"The problem is growing and adults and teens alike need to be more educated
about the prevalence and dangers of heroin," said Richard Schwartz of Inova
Hospital for Children in Falls Church, Virginia.

His findings, published in this month's issue of "Pediatrics," the journal
of the American Academy of Pediatrics, was based on an analysis or more than
80 existing studies and other resources on substance abuse.

While the overall level of heroin use is still low, he said, one study found
that its use by U.S. high school seniors doubled from 1990 to 1996, when 1.8
percent reported using the drug. In 1997 that figure rose again to 2.1
percent, he said.

Schwartz said another study found the drug being used at an earlier age.

"Heroin imported from Colombia and from Mexico is now cheaper and of high
potency, permitting novices to start with nasal administration of the drug,"
he said.

"Most (U.S.) adolescents now initiate heroin use by snorting it; however,
frequent use of heroin by any route leads to tolerance and intense drug
craving," he added.

Young people who may be more likely to start using the drug are those whose
school grades are falling and who also smoke cigarettes and commit
antisocial acts for rebellion or amusement, he said.

Checked-by: Don Beck