Many Europeans have tried illegal drugs. Drug habits and health effects vary by country. In 2024, 15% of young adults in the EU used cannabis. About 2.5% used cocaine.
This is from a report by the European Commission and OECD. Cannabis use is highest in the Czech Republic, Italy, France, and Spain. It is lowest in Malta, Turkey, and Hungary. Cocaine use is most common in the Netherlands, Spain, and Ireland. Turkey, Portugal, Poland, and Hungary have the lowest rates.
Strict drug laws do not stop access, especially for young people. “Heavy penalties impact casual users more than addicts,” says Sabrina Molinaro. She is an epidemiologist at the National Research Council of Italy. She also runs the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs.
Molinaro’s study tracks drug use in 16-year-olds. The survey has run since the 1990s. Trends remain steady. More boys used cannabis in the past. But now, more girls use it in some countries.
Growing Risks from Synthetic and Other Illegal Substances
Cannabis and cocaine are common. But other drugs are rising too. MDMA, heroin, opioids, psychedelics, and synthetics pose health risks. Synthetic drugs are especially dangerous. They are unpredictable and often made in illegal labs.
“The problem is that users do not know what they are taking,” warns Molinaro. Poorly made drugs often have harmful chemicals. In 2022, authorities closed hundreds of illegal labs in the EU. Seven new synthetic opioids appeared in 2023. These drugs are strong and risky.
Health and Social Implications
Drugs cause serious health problems. Regular use links to heart disease, mental illness, and accidents. Infectious diseases like HIV spread through drug use. Synthetic drugs create extra challenges. Authorities struggle to track new substances and ban them in time.
“This is a growing health crisis for adults,” Molinaro says. Europe must focus on stopping drug use early. Policies should prevent addiction and protect young people.
Governments try different approaches. Some focus on punishment. Others prefer education and treatment. Studies show education and support work better than strict laws.
For now, drug use in Europe remains high. Cannabis and cocaine lead the list. Synthetic drugs are growing fast. Experts warn that without action, the crisis will worsen. Europe must act now to protect public health.
For more updates on this issue, visit New York Mirror.
