Latest News On Substance Misuse

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Not Yesterday’s Cocaine: Death Toll Rising From Tainted Drug

KFF Health News Original

While the U.S. continues to focus mainly on the opioid crisis, cocaine is quietly making a comeback and has become one of the biggest overdose killers of African Americans when tainted with fentanyl.

Surgeon General’s Marijuana Warning Omits Crucial Context

KFF Health News Original

Surgeon General Jerome Adams said the drug has a “unique impact” on the developing brain ⁠— technically true, but neglecting a vital comparison to other drugs, as well as shortcomings in the existing research.

How Germany Averted An Opioid Crisis

KFF Health News Original

Doctors are less likely to prescribe opioids in Germany and quicker to notice if a patient is at risk of abuse. And, for those who do experience addiction, treatment is easier to come by.

Meth Trip Or Mental Illness? Police Who Need To Know Often Can’t Tell

KFF Health News Original

The calming techniques that officers learn during training to intervene in a mental health crisis don’t seem to work as well when a suspect is high on meth. Meth calls can be much more dangerous, police say.

Los Angeles Vape District A Black-Market Gateway

KFF Health News Original

A seedy section of downtown Los Angeles has become the go-to place for those who trade in wholesale — and sometimes counterfeit — vaping products. As more people fall ill with a mysterious lung disease linked to e-cigarette use, the manufacture and distribution of vaping products face increased scrutiny.

Washington State Law On Behavioral Care Balances Parental Rights, Teens’ Autonomy

KFF Health News Original

Many states have rules that keep parents from knowing about or consenting to certain types of care for their children, including mental health and drug and alcohol treatment. Washington state, however, has revised its policies.