COCAINE USERS FACE ADDED DANGER

Cocaine users in Lancashire are at an increased risk of cancer
because the drug is being mixed with another dangerous banned substance.

The most popular cutting agent in the region is a pain killer called
Phenacetin, which has been linked to kidney and liver cancers.

The chemical has a similar numbing effect to cocaine, which means it
is difficult for people to tell it is impure.

Supt Dave Brian, from Lancashire Constabulary's Serious and
Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), said: "The average purity of street
cocaine used to be higher.

"We are now finding it to contain more of the harmful adulterants
added by dealers in order to increase their profits.

"We urge pub owners and licensees to adopt a zero tolerance approach
to people taking or dealing any type of drugs in their premises.

"We would also urge them to actively take measures to stop people
being able to take part in this type of activity."

Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Action Team Strategic Director Tom
Woodcock said: "Here is further evidence of the risks that people are taking.

"The cocaine trade is a totally unscrupulous business from start to finish.

"Cocaine use causes a whole host of health and social problems, but
there is help available through local drugs services for people who
are finding cocaine a difficult problem to break."

For further information call the drugline helpline number on 01772 825492.