It’s Epidemic: Prescription Drug Abuse and How to Prevent It

May 23, 2012 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Eastern Time

Prescription drug abuse is the Nation's fastest-growing drug problem, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified prescription drug abuse as an epidemic. While there has been a marked decrease in the use of some illegal drugs like cocaine, national data show that 1 in 4 people aged 12 and over who used drugs for the first time in 2010 started by using a prescription drug non-medically. 

Some individuals who misuse prescription drugs, particularly teens, believe these substances are safer than illicit drugs because they are prescribed by a healthcare professional and dispensed by a pharmacist.  Addressing the prescription drug abuse epidemic is not only a top priority for public health, it also will help build stronger communities and allow those with substance abuse disorders to lead healthier, more productive lives.

Sponsored by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Teen CYFERnet Editorial Board in collaboration with the National Institute on Drug Abuse

Intended Audience (Benefits)

Extension educators, teachers, youth workers, researchers, and other professionals working with children, youth, and families.

Presenters

R. Gil Kerlikowske, Director of National Drug Control Policy

Wilson M. Compton, MD, Director, Division of Epidemiology, Services, and Prevention Research, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health

Elizabeth Robertson, Ph.D., Senior Advisor for Prevention Research, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health 

Richard Spoth, Ph.D., F. Wendell Miller Senior Prevention Scientist and Director, Partnerships in Prevention Science Institute, Iowa State University

Agenda

Participants will:

• Gain an appreciation for the latest trends in prescription drug abuse, particularly among youth.
• Increase their understanding of the principles of effective community-based drug prevention.
• Learn about an evidence-based approach that uses the Cooperative Extension System to promote positive youth development and decrease local prescription drug abuse.

System Requirements

You will need a computer with a current operating system, a sound card and speakers to hear the presenters, and an Internet Connection of at least 56 kb/sec. If a group will be attending the session, you may need external speakers; if you are the only participant, you may prefer to use a headset. You will also need a current version of a web browser and the Flash Player (9 or higher) installed on your computer. Go to: http://na3cps.adobeconnect.com/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.htm to test your computer set-up for the session.