THE SCOURGE OF METH

By any yardstick, meth is dangerous.

Methamphetemines, the illegal drug commonly called meth, is highly
addictive for users. The production of meth can cause fires and creates
toxic byproducts that are hazardous to family members, law enforcement
officers and clean-up crews.

As outlined in a seven-part series that concluded Saturday, meth production
and use has reached epidemic proportions.

Meth is produced by a concoction of substances, including fertilizer and an
ingredient in some cold medicines. The labs used to "cook" meth can be
small, often are portable and proliferate in rural Missouri, according to
drug task forces.

So-called "mom and pop" meth kitchens become biohazards, meth abusers often
sacrifice -- family, friends, lawful behavior -- to feed their cravings,
and meth addiction presents among the most difficult recoveries.

A recovering meth addict summed up the problem when he said: "You will
totally rearrange your life for drugs even if it means giving up friends
and family. You'll do anything to keep it close to you. Beg, steal, borrow,
whatever it takes. Once it has a grip on you, you're in and it's hard to
get out."

What's the solution?

Given the strength and persistence of the problem, a multi-faceted approach
is mandatory. Law enforcement, legislation, controlling the ingredients,
education, recovery resources and counseling all are needed.

Drug task forces have done an admirable job of enforcement, but meth
producers are an elusive species. The public is encouraged to be vigilant
and report suspected meth labs or the theft of fertilizer and other meth
ingredients.

A number of pharmacies have moved cold medicines containing meth
ingredients behind counters. Despite the inconvenience, these pharmacies
deserve to be applauded for voluntarily discouraging meth production.

Recovery resources must be maximized to help abusers control their
addiction, end unlawful behavior and become contributors to society.

Finally, education is paramount. People who avoid illegal drugs never
become part of the problem.

Meth is a drain on lawmakers, law enforcers, law-abiding citizens and the
human spirit. We must work together to destroy this scourge.