Léger Marketing survey shows substance abuse problems are major concern for Quebecers

More than one in eight Quebecers think drug and alcohol dependency problems are public health issues of concern. In the Léger Marketing survey "Quebecers and Substance Abuse," released today as part of Drug Awareness Week, half of respondents say they are affected by substance abuse problems among those around them.

According to the survey results, young people today are far from immune to drug dependency, since Quebecers are almost unanimous (95%) in stating that it is easy for them to obtain drugs, regardless of age group or place of residence.

"The report published today bears witness to Quebecers' widespread concern about the very real problems of drug addiction and the importance of offering substance abusers concrete help to combat their dependency," said Portage president Peter A. Howlett. "Organizations like ours play an essential role in society in that they transform former drug and alcohol abusers into productive citizens."

Two-thirds of respondents are of the opinion that private centers and public agencies must work together to effectively treat people with addiction problems. Moreover, 78% of the Quebecers polled would like more government funding for drug and alcohol abuse treatment programs.

"The survey clearly shows that substance abuse problems are a major concern for Quebecers," explained Léger Marketing president Jean-Marc Léger. "In this respect, the public's message couldn't be clearer in the poll: the people want the government to invest more in drug abuse treatment and work closely with private organizations."

Source: PORTAGE