Ecstasy use in South Africa: findings from the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) project (January 1997-December 2001).
This article provides descriptive surveillance information about the extent and consequences of Ecstasy use for five sentinel sites in South Africa. From January 1997 to December 2001, data were gathered on a biannual basis from multiple sources, including specialist treatment centers, trauma units, school students, rave party attendees, and from police and arrestees. Indicators point to relatively low levels of Ecstasy use in South Africa. Demographic characteristics of Ecstasy consumers in South Africa were identified. Ecstasy is predominantly used among White South African youth of both genders, with the age of users decreasing over recent years. The use of Ecstasy is, however, increasing among other population groups. Some emerging health risks associated with club drug use were identified, including the use of Ecstasy in combination with other substances. On the basis of this information, a number of policy recommendations are made. These are targeted at both Ecstasy demand reduction and harm minimization. The study points to the need for continued monitoring of Ecstasy use and its associated consequences in this country.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Group, Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa. andreas.pluddemann@mrc.ac.za
Andreas
A
Plüddemann
Charles D H
CD
Parry
Bronwyn
B
Myers
Arvin
A
Bhana
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003415:Crime; D003710:Demography; D016021:Epidemiologic Studies; D005260:Female; D006213:Hallucinogens; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine; D011159:Population Surveillance; D013019:South Africa; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*
D006213:Hallucinogens; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine