National Conference on Drug Abuse Prevention Highlights Latest Research

As communities around the country consider how best to prevent drug use, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is convening its 2nd National Conference on Drug Abuse Prevention Research to bring together the nation's premier researchers, prevention practitioners and policymakers. Five years ago, when drug use was increasing among youth at an alarming rate, NIDA hosted its first national conference to encourage community leaders to consider how science-based information can be applied to local drug problems. NIDA's 2nd conference, August 9-10 in Washington, DC, will continue the dialogue begun in 1996. Sixty speakers and 800 participants from around the country will exchange views on the most effective approaches to stemming drug use by the Nation's youth. The outcome will be a significant update of NIDA's well-regarded guide to drug abuse prevention for communities.

"Prevention research has continued to add specifics and show how carefully constructed, science-based programs can significantly reduce drug use," says NIDA Director Dr. Alan I. Leshner. "The task at this conference is to further the discussion of ways to facilitate the adaptation and use of these important findings in real-life settings."

Note to reporters: An agenda for the conference and more information is available on NIDA's Web site at www.drugabuse.gov. To arrange interviews, call the NIDA Press Office at 301-443-6245.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse is a component of the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIDA supports more than 85 percent of the world's research on the health aspects of drug abuse and addiction. The Institute carries out a large variety of programs to ensure the rapid dissemination of research information and its implementation in policy and practice. Fact sheets on the health effects of drugs of abuse and other topics can be ordered free of charge in English and Spanish through NIDA Infofax at 1-888-NIH-NIDA (644-6432) or 1-888-TTY-NIDA (889-6432) for the deaf. These fact sheets and further information on NIDA research and other activities can be found on the NIDA home page at http://www.drugabuse.gov.