Issue, 33, Illicit Drugs, published on December 2007.

Illicit Drugs

Until the 1990's, Cambodia was virtually free of illicit drugs. After the country was opened up following the Paris Peace Agreement, illicit drugs began to be trafficked through Cambodia to neighbouring countries. Between 2003 and 2005, local drug use spiralled: although a more accurate number of drug users are currently being estimated through a survey conducted by the Government and its NGO partners, there are officially around 6,000 Cambodians dependant on illicit substances such as yama and heroin and also problematic use of glue. Drug dependency not only causes social problems but also affects health. Many drug users suffer mental health problems, while the transmission of HIV and other communicable diseases is a key risk, especially for injecting drugs users.

The Royal Government of Cambodia has recognized the urgent need to prevent the spread of illicit drug use. In 1995, the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD) was established to tackle the problem. The NACD works with 13 government ministries, including the Ministry of Health. Laws on the control of drugs have been introduced and the growing of illicit drugs in Cambodia, especially cannabis, has halted. The Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital in Phnom Penh has recently been approved as a service centre for drug users, including those who inject, and a methadone programme will exist within next year or so.

There is still a long way to go in the development of a continuum of care for illicit drug users as well as efforts to reduce the demand for such dangerous substances. Health workers need to be aware of the problems associated with illicit drugs and help fight their spread. The protective measures we put in place now will prepare us for future threats and may reduce the sickness and death currently caused by the use of illicit drugs.
This issue of Health Messenger provides an overview of Illicit Drugs. It highlights the Government's recommended behaviours for the prevention of the spread of illicit drug use in Cambodia. It shows how health personnel can recognize and treat drug dependency and stop discrimination towards drug users.

By working together, we will be able to protect the people of Cambodia from the threat of illicit drugs and their potential impact on the socio-economic and cultural development of our beloved nation. Thank you for your commitment and service.