DRUG ABUSE - THREAT TO CHILDREN

Activities to commemorate the day against drug abuse are underway
nationwide.

Medical reports indicate that drug abuse can cause serious depression,
nervousness, irregular heartbeat For a just and effective drug policy,
the United Nations proclaimed every June 26 as the "International Day
against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking". Activities to celebrate
the day are already taking place nationwide under the theme "drugs are
not child's play".

The theme of this year's celebration has been chosen by the United
Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in an effort to increase
public awareness about the destructive power of drugs and society's
responsibility to care for the well-being of children. Latest
statistics from UNODC estimate that 200 million people, or five per
cent of the global population aged 15-64, have consumed illicit drugs
at least once in the last 12 months.

The statistics of children who consume drugs is the question on every
lip. United Nations office analysis on drugs and crime indicate that
although children are seldom the object of national and international
studies, most of them are affected by drug abuse and illicit
trafficking. It is stated that street children working and living in
dire conditions as well as those whose family members buy and sell
illicit substances are not only exposed to drug abuse but also to
violent behaviour associated to drug abuse. As such, UNODC and the
National Committee for the fight against drug abuse and illicit
trafficking focused anti-drug campaign this year toward urging adults
to protect children.

The National Committee against drug abuse is currently carrying out a
series of activities at the centre for life at the Yaounde Central
Hospital to educate and counsel the population on the complications of
drug abuse. While providing free consultation to visitors at the
centre, the committee also invites parents, siblings and other family
members to ensure that a child's home is a safe environment and that
children should be aware of the dangers associated with drug abuse.
Teachers and social workers have also been called to watch out for
warning signs and take measures to address any drug-related problems
with children. While noting that teenagers and peers may encourage
others to smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol, the National Committee
urges teachers to provide kids with information on the health risks
linked to drug abuse and also give them a forum to discuss the issue
openly. Other individuals and organizations have also been called to
contribute to the protection of children.