Health News

The Global Burden of Drug Abuse
Drug abuse can take a serious toll on a person’s health and ability to function. Worldwide, the abuse of opioids is far greater than the abuse of any other drug.
Turning to Heroin After Painkiller Abuse
Heroin use has been on the rise in the past couple of years. Using prescription painkillers for non-medical purposes may have been a gateway for some adults who started using heroin.
Stopping the Path to Drugs and Alcohol
It's often possible to detect future problems among children who are disruptive in school. Even kindergartners who act up might be at greater risk for problems later — unless someone steps in.
Fewer Moms-To-Be Abusing Booze
Pregnant women have been getting the memo about not abusing alcohol. But higher drug abuse rates among moms-to-be suggest there is still a need for education and support.
More Women Overdosing on Painkillers
Opioid painkiller use has been on the rise for a few years now. Among women in the US, overdose deaths from prescription painkillers have eclipsed all other drug overdoses.
Possible Cocaine Substitute
Quitting any addiction cold turkey can be really tough. A replacement for cocaine, like methadone for heroin addicts, may pave the way for a new therapy to help addicts quit. 
Ouch! I Bonked my Head!
Many of us will remember what it was like to be an awkward, clumsy teenager. Remember bonking our heads on a door after staring a bit too long at our high school crush? How often are injuries like these serious?
Bath Salt “Epidemic” Overhyped
There have been exaggerations about the so-called “bath salt epidemic.” It turns out that the use of heroin is more common than that of bath salts among college kids, but both are rare.
Teenage Rx Abuse Continues
Teenagers have been using prescription medications for recreational purposes. Parents and teachers may be able convince teens that non-medical use of prescriptions is dangerous.
Having “The Talk” with Teens
Parents may feel that what they say to their kids goes in one ear and out the other. But parents may have more influence than they think when it comes to talking with their teens about alcohol and drug use.