The best descriptor of the drug abuse problem in the military is adolescent misbehavior. Data from a survey of military personnel reveal that single, enlisted males under twenty-five are the population most at risk. Although the use of heroin was widely publicized a decade ago, alcohol and cannabis are now the most common substances of abuse. While some work impairment and dependence are reported, these are not characteristic of the drug abuse problem in the military. Programs to decrease the prevalence of drug abuse in the Defense Department are described.
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