Implications of Science for Illicit Drug Use Policies for Adolescents in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

摘要

Addiction to illicit drugs is a substance use disorder that often takes root during the adolescent years and affects individuals in high-income countries as well as those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A consistent pattern in the age of onset of substance use disorders has been documented, with a rapid increase in onset during late adolescence and early adulthood [9]. The developmental processes as well as the events and environments of adolescence likely shape later risk of developing such problems. There is evidence that early initiation increases the risk of dependence [4].