IT'S ABOUT MORE THAN OXYCONTIN (#2 of 2)

The reason any person initially abuses drugs is ignorance of the
risk-benefit ratio. Our young people are often ignorant of the
potential risks of using painkillers in an inappropriate way. That's
because they have been taught since a young age that illegal drugs are
against the law because they are more dangerous. This creates an
erroneous logical conclusion on the part of many young people that
legal drugs are legal because they are less dangerous. Of course this
is not true. The three most addictive and abused drugs by young people
are alcohol, nicotine and opioids, all of which are legal for adults
to use.

It is urgent we teach our teenagers and our fellow adults the true
risk-benefit ratio for any drug. To do anything less is irresponsible
and dangerous for all.

STEPHEN HEATH

Clearwater, Fla.

The writer is the public relations director for the Drug Policy Forum
of Florida-Clearwater.