Marijuana is by far the most used illicit drug in the United States, with over 61 million people using this drug in 2023. The second most used drug at that time was cocaine, followed by methamphetamine and ecstasy. The United States has had a complicated history with drugs, from fighting a “War on Drugs” starting in the 1970s, to seeing the legalisation of marijuana in many states, and experiencing an ongoing nationwide opioid overdose epidemic. Recreational marijuana Although marijuana is still illegal under federal law, 21 states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana. This legalization has opened a new and thriving market in these states. It is estimated that sales of legal cannabis will reach around 25 billion U.S. dollars by the year 2025. Although support for the legalization of marijuana has not always been strong, now around 68 percent of U.S. adults believe it should be made legal. The opioid epidemic The opioid epidemic describes a rise in overdose deaths in the U.S. due to prescription opioids, heroin, and illegally manufactured synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. The epidemic stems from misleading information from pharmaceutical companies concerning the dangers of opioids such as oxycontin, overprescribing of opioids from physicians, and an influx of easily accessible heroin and highly potent synthetic opioids. In 2022, there were around 81,806 deaths from opioid overdose in the United States.

Marijuana, followed by cocaine and LSD, is the most used illicit drug in the United States. As of 2023, around 133.5 million people in the United States had used marijuana at some point in their lifetime. In the past few years, a number of states have legalized marijuana for both recreational and medical purposes, creating a new and thriving market. Legal cannabis As of the beginning of 2023, 21 U.S. states had legalised the use of cannabis for recreational purposes. Sales of legal cannabis were estimated to reach 21.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, with this number expected to grow to 25 billion by the year 2025. By that time, the state of California is expected to account for around 20 percent of the legal cannabis industry. Florida and Illinois are expected to account for the second and third highest shares of the industry with eight percent each. Teen cannabis use Despite the recent change of legality in many U.S. states, the perceived availability of marijuana among 12th graders has decreased in recent years. Nevertheless, around 70 percent of 12th graders stated they perceived it to be “fairly easy” or “very easy” to obtain marijuana. Past month use of marijuana among high school students has also declined from figures reported in the late 1990s, but around 11 percent of high school students still report having used marijuana in the past month.

In 2023, it was estimated that over 42 million people in the United States had used cocaine at some point in their life. The number of people in the United States who stated they had used cocaine in the past month has fluctuated over the past decade, but over two million people reported they had used cocaine in the past month as of 2023. Cocaine use among teens The percentage of U.S. students in grades 8, 10, and 12 that had used cocaine in their lifetime has gradually decreased since 1999. At that time, around 7.2 percent of students stated they had used cocaine in their lifetime, while in 2021 just 1.4 percent of students said so. Perhaps unsurprisingly, perceived availability of cocaine among 12th graders has also decreased over the past couple decades, with about 17 percent of 12th graders stating cocaine was “fairly easy” or “very easy” to get in 2021, compared to almost 55 percent who reported it was easy to get in 1990. The most common illicit drugs U.S. students in grades 8, 10, and 12 reported having used in their lifetime were marijuana, inhalants, and hallucinogens such as LSD and mushrooms. Deaths from cocaine In 2020, there were 19,447 drug poisoning deaths involving cocaine in the United States. The number of overdose deaths involving cocaine has increased significantly over the past few years as part of the ongoing opioid epidemic. Although, it is possible to die of an overdose just from using cocaine, many overdose deaths in the U.S. that involved cocaine also involved the use of opioids. The rate of overdose deaths involving cocaine is almost three times higher among men than women, but both have seen increases in the rate of overdose death in recent years. Considering race and ethnicity, the rate of overdose deaths involving cocaine is by far highest among black, non-Hispanics and lowest among Asian/Pacific Islander, non-Hispanics.

This report contains results from the latest survey of secondary school pupils in England in years 7 to 11 (mostly aged 11 to 15), focusing on smoking, drinking and drug use. It covers a range of topics including prevalence, habits, attitudes, and wellbeing. In 2023 the survey was administered online for the first time, instead of paper-based surveys as in previous years. This move online also meant that completion of the survey could be managed through teacher-led sessions, rather than being conducted by external interviewers. The 2023 survey also introduced additional questions relating to pupils wellbeing. These included how often the pupil felt lonely, felt left out and that they had no-one to talk to. Results of analysis covering these questions have been presented within parts of the report and associated data tables. The report includes this summary report showing key findings, excel tables with more detailed outcomes, technical appendices and a data quality statement. An anonymised record level file of the underlying data on which users can carry out their own analysis will be made available via the UK Data Service in early 2025 (see link below).

In 2021, it was estimated that around 296 million people worldwide consumed illegal drugs such as cannabis, opioids, and cocaine. Furthermore, around 39.5 million people were thought to be problem drug users or to have a drug use disorder. Although drug use varies from country to country, drug use remains a significant problem in many parts of the world. For example, the United States is currently experiencing an opioid epidemic, with drug overdose deaths reaching record levels over the past few years.

What is the most used illicit drug worldwide? The most used illicit drug worldwide is cannabis, followed by opioids, and amphetamines. High estimates suggest that around 5.4 percent of the global population consumed cannabis in the past year as of 2021. In comparison, around 1.5 percent of people were thought to have consumed opioids in the past year, and less than one percent were estimated to have used amphetamines. Drug use is generally more prevalent among men than women, but this distribution varies by drug. For example, around 73 percent of cocaine users worldwide are men and 27 percent are women, but women account for 45 percent of amphetamine users.

Cannabis uses In 2021, it was estimated that around 219 million people worldwide consumed cannabis at least once in the past year. The highest number of past year cannabis users at that time was found in the Americas. This may be unsurprising since Canada and many U.S. states now allow the sale and use of recreational cannabis. The market for recreational cannabis is substantial in both countries. In the United States, sales of recreational cannabis reached 16.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2021 and are expected to grow to some 37 billion U.S. dollars by the year 2026. In 2020, there were thought to be around 3.43 million adult consumers of cannabis in the United States, with this number expected to increase to just over six million by 2025.

Contains a set of data tables for each part of the Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England, 2021 report

It is estimated that around 5.8 percent of the global population uses illicit drugs. Use of illicit drugs varies by country and region as countries enact their own laws regarding such substances. Access to illicit drugs also differs by country and region and culture plays a role in how acceptable drug use is.

Global drug use

Worldwide, cannabis is by far the most used illicit drug, followed by opioids and amphetamines. It is estimated that around 296 million people worldwide consume illegal drugs and 39.5 million could be considered addicts or problem drug users. Drug addiction and abuse can negatively impact relationships, increases the risk of a number of diseases, and can ultimately lead to death.

Opioid epidemic in the U.S.

The United States has a long and complicated history with illegal drugs, once going so far as to fight a “War on Drugs”. Today, the U.S. is experiencing what has been called an opioid epidemic. This has been characterized by an increase in overdose deaths from prescription opioids, heroin and, more recently, illegally manufactured synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl. In 2021, there were 80,411 opioid overdose deaths in the United States.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) series (formerly titled National Household Survey on Drug Abuse) primarily measures the prevalence and correlates of drug use in the United States. The surveys are designed to provide quarterly, as well as annual, estimates. Information is provided on the use of illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco among members of United States households aged 12 and older. Questions included age at first use as well as lifetime, annual, and past-month usage for the following drug classes: marijuana, cocaine (and crack), hallucinogens, heroin, inhalants, alcohol, tobacco, and nonmedical use of prescription drugs, including pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives. The survey covered substance abuse treatment history and perceived need for treatment, and included questions from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders that allow diagnostic criteria to be applied. The survey included questions concerning treatment for both substance abuse and mental health related disorders. Respondents were also asked about personal and family income sources and amounts, health care access and coverage, illegal activities and arrest record, problems resulting from the use of drugs, and needle-sharing. Questions introduced in previous administrations were retained in the 2007 survey, including questions asked only of respondents aged 12 to 17. These "youth experiences" items covered a variety of topics, such as neighborhood environment, illegal activities, drug use by friends, social support, extracurricular activities, exposure to substance abuse prevention and education programs, and perceived adult attitudes toward drug use and activities such as school work. Several measures focused on prevention-related themes in this section. Also retained were questions on mental health and access to care, perceived risk of using drugs, perceived availability of drugs, driving and personal behavior, and cigar smoking. Questions on the tobacco brand used most often were introduced with the 1999 survey. Background information includes gender, race, age, ethnicity, marital status, educational level, job status, veteran status, and current household composition.

The Drug Use Among Young Indians: Epidemiology and Prediction study is an annual surveillance effort assessing the levels and patterns of substance use among American Indian (AI) adolescents attending schools on or near reservations. In addition to annual epidemiology of substance use, data pertaining to the normative environment for adolescent substance use were also obtained. For this data collection data comes from annual in-school surveys completed between the years 1993 to 2006, and 2009 to 2013. Students completed the surveys at school during a specified class period. The dataset contains 534 variables for 26,451 students in grades 7 to 12.

The report looks at addiction and dependence in the areas of illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco in Austria. The aim is to answer the following questions: How many and which people are affected by addiction and which consumption behaviour prevails? The report combines numerous data sources such as data from treatment facilities and statistics on causes of death.
https://jasmin.goeg.at/1925/2/Epidemiologiebericht%20Sucht_2021_Annex_bf.pdf

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Drugs Of Abuse Testing Market Size 2024-2028

The drugs of abuse testing market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.04 billion at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased strategic developments and the growing adoption of advanced information technology and information management solutions. These advancements in instruments enable efficient and accurate testing, reducing turnaround time and enhancing overall productivity. For instance, mass spectrometer and chromatography systems are extensively employed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of cannabinoids in cannabis strains. However, high costs associated with the implementation and maintenance of these technologies remain a challenge for market expansion. Additionally, stringent regulations and the need for continuous innovation to keep up with emerging drugs of abuse are other key factors shaping the market landscape. Overall, the DoA testing market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, fueled by the need for workplace safety and substance abuse prevention.

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The market is driven by the increasing prevalence of prescription drug abuse, psychostimulants, fentanyl, vaping, and illicit drugs, as well as alcohol. Substance use disorders continue to be a significant public health concern in the US. Forensic laboratories and hospitals are major end-users, diagnostics with epidemiologic investigations and addiction treatment centers also contribute. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, those with chronic pain, LIMS software, and individuals with opioid medications are key focus areas. Drugs like Fentanyl, psychostimulants, and cannabis/marijuana are common targets for testing.

Moreover, fentanyl, a powerful opioid, has emerged as a significant threat in the market. Its illegally manufactured forms are often mixed with other substances, making it difficult to detect and leading to a high number of overdose deaths. The elderly population is another vulnerable group in the market. They are at a higher risk of substance use disorders due to chronic pain and the misuse of prescription medications. Drug use statistics indicate that psychostimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, continue to be popular among certain demographics. Vaping, a newer form of drug delivery, has also gained popularity, particularly among the younger population.

Furthermore, real-time surveillance and epidemiologic investigations play a crucial role in identifying drug-related activity and addressing vulnerabilities in the market. Public awareness campaigns and drug testing mandates are essential tools in preventing substance use disorders and promoting addiction treatment. Cannabis, or marijuana, is another substance of interest in the market. While it is legal for medicinal and recreational use in some states, it is still illegal in others, making testing a necessity for employers and law enforcement agencies. The market is expected to grow due to the increasing need for accurate and reliable testing services. This growth is driven by the rising number of overdose deaths, addiction treatment initiatives, and public awareness campaigns.

In conclusion, the market is a critical component in addressing substance use disorders and promoting public health. It encompasses various sectors, including forensic laboratories and hospitals, and offers testing services for a range of substances, including prescription drugs, illicit drugs, and alcohol. The market is driven by various factors, including the increasing prevalence of substance use disorders, the emergence of new drugs and drug delivery methods, and the need for accurate and reliable testing services.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Product

  Instruments
  Consumables


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Denmark


  Asia

    China
    India


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The instruments segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses various systems, analyzers, and devices for detecting and quantifying different drug substances. These tools include breath analyzers, chromatography analyzers, immunoassay analyzers, urine testing devices, and oral fluid testing devices. For example, cannabis testing relies on mass spectrometers and chromatography systems to identify and measure the presence and quantity of cannabinoid compounds. Biotechnology plays a significant role in the market, as the principles of detection and quantification are similar to those used in foo

In 2023, around 43.7 million people in the United States used marijuana in the past month. This statistic shows the number of people in the U.S. who used select illicit drugs in the past month, as of 2023, in thousands.

Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.

The Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People surveys began in 1982, under the name Smoking among Secondary Schoolchildren. The series initially aimed to provide national estimates of the proportion of secondary schoolchildren aged 11-15 who smoked, and to describe their smoking behaviour. Similar surveys were carried out every two years until 1998 to monitor trends in the prevalence of cigarette smoking. The survey then moved to an annual cycle, and questions on alcohol consumption and drug use were included. The name of the series changed to Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young Teenagers to reflect this widened focus. In 2000, the series title changed, to Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People. NHS Digital (formerly the Information Centre for Health and Social Care) took over from the Department of Health as sponsors and publishers of the survey series from 2005. From 2014 onwards, the series changed to a biennial one, with no survey taking place in 2015, 2017 or 2019.

In some years, the surveys have been carried out in Scotland and Wales as well as England, to provide separate national estimates for these countries. In 2002, following a review of Scotland's future information needs in relation to drug misuse among schoolchildren, a separate Scottish series, Scottish Schools Adolescent Lifestyle and Substance Use Survey (SALSUS) was established by the Scottish Executive.

The Survey of Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England in 2013 is the latest in a series of surveys that measures the prevalence of smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and illicit drug use among 11 to 15 year olds in England. The survey collects detailed prevalence data as well as associated contextual information, including relevant attitudes, beliefs and knowledge. As well as a core set of questions that are included every year, the questionnaire alternates its focus between smoking and drinking (every other year between 2000 and 2012) and drug taking (every other year between 2001 and 2013).
Main Topics:

Main topics included:

• young people in England and their legal and illegal substance use
• associated attitudes, beliefs and knowledge.

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Drug Screening Market Size 2024-2028

The drug screening market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.66 billion at a CAGR of 21.49% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing robust growth due to several key factors. Advancements in drug screening technologies are driving innovation and improving accuracy and efficiency. These advancements include the use of biomarkers, molecular diagnostics, and point-of-care testing. Additionally, increased strategic developments by market players are expanding the market's scope and enhancing its competitiveness. Stringent workplace safety regulations also contribute to the market's growth, as employers seek to ensure a drug-free work environment. Moreover, consumer preferences are shifting towards more efficient and convenient drug screening solutions. This trend is driving the transition towards more automated and digital systems. Better accessibility to drug screening services is also a significant factor, as more employers and individuals seek to address substance abuse issues. Industry standards are continually evolving, and companies in this market are adjusting their strategies to meet these shifts.

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Drug Screening Market Segmentation

The drug screening market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018 - 2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Drug screening products
  Drug screening services


Application

  Urine samples
  Breath samples
  Hair and blood samples
  Oral fluid samples


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany


  Asia

    China
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW)

Which is the largest segment driving market growth?

The drug screening products segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses test kits, analyzers, and consumables, which are increasingly utilized for detecting illicit substances in various sectors. The market's growth is driven by escalating drug abuse, stringent regulatory requirements, and safety concerns in workplaces. Drug screening is essential in industries like transportation, healthcare, and construction to ensure regulatory compliance and workplace security. Technological advancements have led to the emergence of innovative and reliable drug screening solutions, further increasing market demand. Key players in this market include Abbott and Thermo Fisher, offering diverse product portfolios. Drug screening is crucial for identifying drug use in schools, hospitals, pain management facilities, drug treatment centers, and among individual users.

It addresses issues related to performance-enhancing drugs, banned substances, alcohol consumption, cannabis, opioids, and prescription medication abuse. The market caters to both personal and workplace needs, providing non-invasive, portable, time-saving, sanitary, and user-friendly solutions. Government policies, pharmaceutical development, and high-throughput screening technologies are shaping the drug screening industry's future.

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The Drug screening products segment was valued at USD 2.35 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Which region is leading the market?

North America is estimated to contribute 46% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

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Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.The Drug Screening industry in North America is experiencing significant growth due to stringent regulations and extensive drug testing programs in healthcare, transportation, and sporting sectors. Key drivers include the increasing incidence of drug abuse and the demand for workplace safety. In response to the opioid crisis, Quest Diagnostics introduced a new drug testing panel to detect fentanyl analogs. Technological advancements, such as point-of-care testing tools and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), are also contributing to market expansion. The regional market is expected to continue growing, with a focus on improving screening technology, reducing false positives and negatives, and addressing the use of performance enhancing drugs and banned substances.

The industry caters to various sectors, including pain management facilities, drug treatment centers, schools and colleges, hospitals, individual users, and law enforcement agencies. Drug screening services utilize various samples, such as urine, oral fluid, and hair, and employ analytical instruments, rapid test

The Estonian Drug Treatment Database is a state register which is kept on the people who have started drug treatment. The Drug Treatment Database started its work on January 1, 2008.

Collection and processing of data on these people is necessary for getting an overview on occurrence of mental and behavioural disorders related to drug use, as well as for organising of relevant health services and planning of drug abuse preventive actions. Health care institutions holding a psychiatry authorization in Estonia present data to the database if they are turned to by a patient who is diagnosed with a mental and behavioural disorder due to drug use.

On the basis of the database's data, an annual overview is compiled, giving information about drug addicts who have turned to drug treatment in the previous calendar year, about the health service provided, the patients' socio-economic background, drug use and the related risk behaviour.

The data on the Drug Treatment Database are also submitted to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Drug use among 13 and 15 year olds in Scotland.

This annual statistical report presents information on drug misuse among both adults and children. The topics covered include: Prevalence of drug misuse, including the types of drugs used; Trends in drug misuse over recent years; Patterns of drug misuse among different groups of the population; Health outcomes related to drug misuse including hospital admissions, drug treatment and number of deaths. The report also summarises Government plans and targets in this area, as well as providing sources of further information and links to relevant documents. The report draws together data from a variety of different sources and presents it in a user-friendly format. Most of the data contained in the bulletin have been published previously by the Health and Social Care Information Centre, the Home Office, the Office for National Statistics or the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse. Previously unpublished figures on drug-related admissions to hospital are presented using data from the Health and Social Care Information Centre's Hospital Episode Statistics (HES).

The drug of abuse testing market is estimated to capture a valuation of US$ 1.65 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 2.69 billion by 2033. The market is estimated to secure a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period.

Attribute	Details
Market CAGR (2023 to 2033)	5.3%
Market Valuation (2023)	US$ 1.65 billion
Market Valuation (2033)	US$ 2.69 billion

Country-wise Insights

Countries	Current Market Share
United States	25.5%
Germany	4%
Japan	3.3%

Countries	Current Market CAGR
Australia	6.2%
China	6%
India	6.7%
United Kingdom	5.3%

Scope of Report

Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2023 to 2033
Historical Data Available for	2018 to 2022
Market Analysis	US$ billion for Value
Key Countries Covered	The United States, The United Kingdom, Japan, India, China, Australia, Germany
Key Segments Covered	Drug Type Technique End User Region
Key Companies Profiled	Quest Diagnostics Roche Holding AG Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Siemens AG (Siemens Healthineers) Abbott Laboratories (Alere, Inc.) Shimadzu Corporation Express Diagnostics International Inc. Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings.
Report Coverage	Market Forecast, Company Share Analysis, Competition Intelligence, DROT Analysis, Market Dynamics and Challenges, and Strategic Growth Initiatives
Customization & Pricing	Available upon Request

In 2021/2022, the states with the highest share of people who had used cocaine in the past year were Colorado, Vermont, the District of Columbia, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. In Colorado, around 3.06 percent of the population were estimated to have used cocaine in the past year at that time, compared to the U.S. average of 1.95 percent. The states with the lowest past-year cocaine consumption rates were New Hampshire and Wyoming. Cocaine use in the United States As of 2022, cocaine was the second most used illicit drug in the United States, behind marijuana. At that time around 42.2 million people in the U.S. had used cocaine at least once in their lifetime. In comparison, around 29.5 million people reported using LSD in their lifetime and 22.1 million had used ecstasy. In 2022, almost 5.2 million people were estimated to have used cocaine in the past year. How many people in the U.S. die from cocaine every year? The number of drug poisoning deaths involving cocaine has increased significantly over the past couple decades. In 2021, there were around 24,486 overdose deaths involving cocaine, compared to just 3,800 in the year 1999. However, it is important to note that many overdose deaths involving cocaine also involve other drugs, namely opioids. The increase in overdose deaths involving cocaine is directly related to the ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States. Rates of overdose death involving cocaine are twice as high for men than women, but death rates for both men and women have increased in recent years.

The DC Metropolitan Area Drug Study (DCMADS) was conducted in 1991, and included special analyses of homeless and transient populations and of women delivering live births in the DC hospitals. DCMADS was undertaken to assess the full extent of the drug problem in one metropolitan area. The study was comprised of 16 separate studies that focused on different sub-groups, many of which are typically not included or are underrepresented in household surveys. The Homeless and Transient Population study examines the prevalence of illicit drug, alcohol, and tobacco use among members of the homeless and transient population aged 12 and older in the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Statistical Area (DC MSA). The sample frame included respondents from shelters, soup kitchens and food banks, major cluster encampments, and literally homeless people. Data from the questionnaires include history of homelessness, living arrangements and population movement, tobacco, drug, and alcohol use, consequences of use, treatment history, illegal behavior and arrest, emergency room treatment and hospital stays, physical and mental health, pregnancy, insurance, employment and finances, and demographics. Drug specific data include age at first use, route of administration, needle use, withdrawal symptoms, polysubstance use, and perceived risk.This study has 1 Data Set.