ENG-2007 — Page 369

Public Order 1 313

In 2007, 13 491 drug abusers were recorded in the registry, 30 per cent were new cases, 22 per cent were aged under 21, and 82 per cent were males. Heroin remained the most commonly abused drug in Hong Kong, with 55 per cent of drug abusers recorded in the registry being heroin abusers. The proportion of psychotropic substance abusers has increased noticeably over the years reaching 58 per cent in 2007. Psychotropic substances commonly abused included ketamine (30 per cent), triazolam/midazolam/zopiclone (14 per cent) and ice (8 per cent). About 26 per cent of drug abusers in 2007 were reported to have abused more than one drug. Some 11 per cent of drug abusers were reported to have taken drugs in Mainland China (mostly in Shenzhen). 41 per cent of drug abusers were reported to have taken drugs. at home/friends' home only, another 32 per cent at home/friends' home and other localities (such as recreation area/public garden/public toilet and disco/karaoke) and the remaining 27 per cent at other localities only.

Research

Findings from drug-related research studies provide useful reference materials to facilitate the Government's formulation of anti-drug strategies and programmes. During the year, a study on reviewing the clinical trials for applying acupuncture therapy in treatment of heroin dependence was completed. Furthermore, phase one of another study on engagement of parents in anti-drug work was also completed.

Acupuncture is a commonly used therapy for drug addiction. The study on meta- analysis of acupuncture therapy reviewed the clinical trials for applying acupuncture therapy in treatment of heroin dependence. It suggested that acupuncture therapy (AT) was statistically more favourable than medication therapy (MT) in relieving heroin withdrawal syndrome, and AT combined with MT may be more effective in clinical application. Moreover, AT is safe for treating patients clinically. AT therefore should be an effective and safe way for heroin detoxification. However, more clinical trials should be conducted to further verify the findings of the study.

Another study on the engagement of parents in anti-drug work is progressing. The study is to assess the extent to which parents are involved in existing drug prevention activities in Hong Kong, and to examine the reasons that motivate or discourage parents from getting involved. The research has also helped in the development of preventive education programmes that better equip parents, in particular parents of vulnerable youth, with the necessary knowledge and skills to advise and help their children to deal with drug-related problems. These programmes are being implemented and their effectiveness are being evaluated. The study will be completed in 2008.

This year, three new research projects were launched, namely 'Study of cocaine abuse in Hong Kong', 'Study of patterns of drugs of abuse using conventional and new technologies', 'Short-term and long-term effects of Chinese herbal medicine in drug detoxification - a series of meta-analysis'.

To guage public view on anti-drug publicity activities and the reference of drug abuse in Chinese- and '' to provide information for further improving

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