Addiction treatment trebles outside ERHA - study

Drug-related problems trebled outside the Eastern Regional Health Authority’s area between 1998 and 2002, according to a study published today by the Health Research Board.

The study showed that the number of people presenting for treatment increased from 25 per 100,000 in 1998 to 70 per 100,000 in 2002.

The Health Research Board said the highest numbers presenting for treatment were in the south-east of the country and the lowest numbers were in the west.

It also said cannabis addiction was the main drug-related problem, but opiate use was also on the increase.