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Used and Abused
by Richard N. Waldman
September 16 , 2010
An estimated 20 million Americans—including nearly 10% of nonpregnant women ages 15–44and 5% of pregnant women—reported illegal drug use in 2008.Substance use and abuse are increasingamong women and affectwomen of all backgrounds,regardless of age, socioeconomicstatus, or race.Marijuana is, by far, the mostcommonly used illegal drug,taken by roughly 75% of illicitdrug users. Recreational use ofprescription drugs is on the rise,especially among women, withmore than six million people reportingnon-medical use of prescriptiondrugs such as opiates,tranquilizers, and stimulants. Useof other street drugs, such ascocaine, methamphetamines,heroin, hallucinogens, and inhalants,also remained high. Illegal drug use in women increasesthe risk of physical andmental health issues, such as reproductiveproblems, liver disease,stroke, certain cancers,STDs, and depression. Becausethey can cross the placenta to afetus, illegal drugs are especiallydangerous to use during pregnancy.Illegal drug use duringpregnancy can lead to pretermbirth, birth defects, still birth,and newborn-related problems,including addiction at the time ofbirth, breathing difficulties, irritability,and bonding troubles.Substance abuse and dependenceare treatable medical conditions,not a sign of weakness,bad character, or lack of willpower.
Many women are reluctantto admit that they are havingproblems with substance abuse,fearing repercussions at work orwith the police, social isolation, orloss of their children. Others maynot be aware of the extent of theirdependence on drugs or may bein denial. But if you or someoneyou know has a substance abuseproblem, it is important to seekhelp. Signs of dependence mayinclude:· A need for increasedamounts of the drug to receive thedesired effect· Experiencing mental andphysical withdrawal symptoms,such as anxiety, depression, irritability,nausea, vomiting, andtremors· A persistent desire or unsuccessfulefforts to cut down orcontrol use· Giving up important social,work, or recreational activitiesbecause of substance useRemember that casual drug usecan quickly turn into dependence.It is best to avoid using illegal substances,including prescriptionmedications that were not prescribedto you. If you are pregnant,that goes double. Pregnantwomen should also inform theirdoctor of any medications thatthey take so they can be sure theyare safe to use during pregnancy.Your doctor can be an excellentresource for advice and educationalinformation on illegal andprescription drug abuse and canrefer you to health professionalsand support groups that can help.September is National Alcoholand Drug Addiction RecoveryMonth. For more information, goto www.recoverymonth.gov/.@&
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AFRICAN AMERICAN HEALTH INSTITUTE
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