ONE of the most serious diseases facing societies around the world today is the use of narcotics especially by the young who are the future wealth of any nation. Given the dangers that drug usage and addiction pose, radical solutions must be found and the most advanced medical treatment must be made available to those who have become drug addicts. A recent report that Al-Amal hospitals, which treat drug addiction in the Kingdom, are currently providing medical treatment to 30 young women addicts is cause for alarm. Furthermore, the report goes on to say that the rate of drug use and addiction among women has increased by 20 percent. All of this indicates, an unhealthy spread of the use of drugs in society which needs to be addressed by all of those who are concerned with the well-being of our young men and women. Clearly the various government ministries have a role to play in preventing drugs from entering the Kingdom, cracking down on criminal elements involved in the drug trade and on providing the most modern medical treatment for those who have become addicted to narcotics. But the job is not the government's alone. All segments of society must play their part in dealing with this menace. The role of the family is important as parents are most likely the first to see the symptoms of drug related behavior in their sons and daughters. Such behavior on the part of young people must not be ignored and parents should seek treatment for them immediately. Our schools, universities and educational institutions of all kinds also have the responsibility of providing solutions to this problem. Lessons on the dangers of drug addiction should become a part of the curriculum. Finally, the nation's media has a role to play in raising the overall awareness of the general public. As our young people are the wealth of the nation and as our future is in their hands, everyone must play a part in protecting them from the menace of drug addiction. __
