"The results of the survey report show an increase in substance abuse, with a 3.7 percent lifetime prevalence use rate, as compared with a 2004 WHO [World Health Organization] report indicating a less than one percent rate," the report, released on Wednesday, stated.
The US government survey compiled with the Baghdad-based Ministry of Health tracked the prevalence and demographics of substance abuse across Iraq to help create a new national strategy to reduce substance abuse, according to the State Department.
"Iraqi pharmacies are only beginning to require a doctor’s prescription before providing medicine and drugs to consumers," the report pointed out.
Drug law reform is needed to address the abuse and diversion of pharmaceutical medication and provide comprehensive protection against the trafficking and use of synthetic drugs, the report acknowledged.
