A wastewater study conducted in Europe found a rise in stimulant use, while also noting a decline in cannabis use. The study looked at data from 128 European cities, across 26 different countries The study was conducted in association with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), alongside the SCORE Network, a European-based organization that analyzes data from wastewater.
“Wastewater monitoring offers invaluable insights into the dynamics of drug use and supply, and is a powerful tool for boosting preparedness against emerging challenges. This year’s study, covering a record 128 European cities, paints a clear picture of a drug problem that is both widespread and complex, with all six substances detected in nearly every location. As the potential of wastewater analysis grows, we look forward to further developing our work in this area to better inform public health and policy responses,” said Alexis Goosdeel, the executive director of EUDA in a recent press release.
The study noticed a significant rise in substances like ketamine, MDMA, cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines, while noting a significant decline in cannabis use. 25 out of 51 cities in the study reported a decline in overall cannabis use, while increases in harder substances were seen across the continent. Cocaine use rose across 29 cities, 34 cities saw an increase in amphetamines, 32 cities experienced an increase in methamphetamine use, while ketamine use rose across 14 cities.
The study revealed an interesting change in drug use changes, one that points to social favoring of harder drugs instead of cannabis. But similarly, this study signals novel trends about how drug use has changed amongst the modern landscape.
