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Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse

Mortality

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In Memoriam—Donald H.

In a blink of an eye, you realize that drugs are really a part of your life. I thought that since I didn't do them, they could never hurt me. That is until last week when I received a call that someone I loved very much had overdosed. He was so smart, creative, funny and lovable. He was the person in my life who was always up to do whatever or go wherever. My heart will ache eternally.
- Whittney S.

Source: Partnership for a Drug-Free America®, www.drugfree.org

Drug-related deaths have more than doubled since the early 1980s. There are more deaths, illness, and disabilities from substance abuse than from any other preventable health condition. Today, one in four deaths is attributable to alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use.

This page was last updated December 2012

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