Drug Abuse in the Global Village
Drug Abuse in the Americas

Trends in Drug Abuse in Central America

COSTA RICA
UNDCP key informants survey as well as emergency and detention room studies indicate an increase in the abuse of cocaine, crack and cannabis. Some increase in the abuse of opiates, synthetic narcotic analgesics, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepine and other sedatives is also noted. Abuse of hallucinogens has remained stable (U.N. 1992; CICAD 1993).

EL SALVADOR
No information reported in Annual Reports Questionnaire by 31st December 1993.

GUATEMALA
A significant increase in the abuse of cannabis, barbiturates and tranquilizers was reported. There was also some increase in the abuse of hallucinogens, inhalants and ethilic alcohol. The increase in abuse is attributed to family problems and broken homes, as well as increased supply (U.N. 1991).

HONDURAS
No information reported in Annual Reports Questionnaire by 31st December 1993.

MEXICO
An increase in drug abuse was reported from 1986 to 1992 according to UNDCP key informant surveys (U.N. 1986-1992). Key informants reported the largest increase in the abuse of cocaine, that is from about 2 per cent in 1985 to 9 per cent in 1991. The increase is attributed to changes in traffic patterns and more availability (U.N. 1991).

PANAMA
There has been a significant increase in the abuse of both cocaine and "basuco" (coca-paste). An increase in the abuse of cannabis has also been reported (U.N. 1988).

            The Social Security Fund's Psychiatric Ward showed a steady rise in the percentage of drug dependent abusers treated: in 1983 the proportion was 3.3 per cent (10 out of 330); in 1984, 5.9 per cent (22 out of 376); and in 1985, 7 per cent (26 out of 372) (PAHO 1990).