ENG-2011 — Page 385

Public Order | 333

Research

Findings from drug-related research studies provide useful evidence-based references for the Government's formulation of anti-drug strategies and programmes. A 'Survey of Drug Use among Students', covering students from upper primary to university, was launched in the school year of 2011-12. This survey will provide valuable information on characteristics of students who take drugs, their attitudes towards and knowledge of drug abuse, and other related variables, such as attitudinal, behavioural, school, and family factors associated with drug use.

Four new research projects were launched in 2011:

• 'Surveillance of emerging drugs of abuse in substance abusers';

• 'A targeted urological treatment programme for secondary school students abusing psychotropic substance and a territory-wide school-based survey of bladder dysfunction symptoms associated with psychotropic substance abuse';

• 'A community study of uro-psycho-physical changes in young adults using ketamine'; and

• 'Evidence of brain damage in chronic ketamine users a brain imaging study'.

These were in addition to seven ongoing projects:

• 'A review of estimation method on prevalence of drug abuse population in Hong Kong,

• 'Study of the drug abuse situation and service needs of non-engaged youth in Hong Kong';

• 'Psychiatric comorbidity and cognitive dysfunction in primarily ketamine users a closer look';

• 'Prospective observational study of urinary symptoms, sexual behaviors and psychiatric symptoms in ketamine misusers';

• 'Clinical profile of lower urinary tract changes and urinary marker measurements in young adults using ketamine';

• 'Socioeconomic and health impacts of psychoactive drug abuse in Hong Kong - a longitudinal study'; and

• 'The detrimental effects of long term ketamine with alcohol abuses in mice and its use in an educational programme'.

'Path Builders'

'Path Builders', an initiative launched by the ACAN and the ND in September 2008 to mobilise community support for young people, provides a platform from which community resources is channelled to programmes and initiatives for young persons' healthy development. Businesses, professional organisations and individuals. are encouraged to contribute in various ways, such as providing internship or