KARACHI, June 26: Pakistan, observing World Narcotics Day on Wednesday with an estimated number of 4.5 million addicts, is exposed to the serious problem of relapse on part of those undergoing detoxification programmes at centres scattered around the country.
Doctors said that the relapse rate in the country comes to around 70 per cent due to lack of commitment on part of the concerned quarters responsible for arranging adequate rehabilitation of these individuals.
Dr Majid Abidi of Hamdard Medical University Hospital said that local youth are being increasingly trapped by addiction of contraband drugs, particularly heroin.
He also regretted the lack of concern and interest even among immediate family members of these unfortunate individuals.
“People often fail to ensure that their brother, son or even husband could be helped out of the situation,” he observed.
Meanwhile, Prof Amin Gadet, citing addiction a global menace linked to peer influence, socio-economic reasons and easy availability of drugs, also referred to the “genetic connection.”—APP
