IT'S DRUG AWARENESS WEEK

No one is immune to the risks of alcohol, marijuana, and prescription
medication.

That's the message being conveyed during Drug Awareness Week, Nov.
17-23, says Velma Shewfelt, co-ordinator of the Think Clear program of
the Simcoe County District Health Unit.

'It's not just alcohol, just marijuana, or just medication," says
Shewfelt. "All three are drugs, and we hope that by raising awareness
about their use and abuse, we help people make healthy lifestyle
choices that protect, and promote their good health, as well as the
health of those around them."

Binge drinking, marijuana use and the misuses of medications are being
targetted this year. A study done in 2001 revealed more than 40 per
cent of Grade 7 students reported drinking until they became sick, at
least once in the four weeks prior to the study. Marijuana is the
number one substance identified by callers seeking treatment in
Ontario. Adverse medication effects, and non-compliance with
prescription instructions are the cause of 10 per cent of all hospital
admissions.

For more information, call Health Connection at 721-7520 or visit
www.simcoehealth.org