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Statistics on the prevalence of drug use and abuse in the United States among various demographic groups

United States population's behaviors and patterns regarding substance consumption and abuse

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United States Statistics on Substance Abuse and Misuse Patterns
United States Statistics on Substance Abuse and Misuse Patterns

Statistics on the prevalence of drug use and abuse in the United States among various demographic groups

In the latest 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), it was revealed that alcohol use disorder was the most common substance use disorder for every racial or ethnic group in the United States. The ethnic group with the highest rate was people of two or more races (11.7%), followed closely by American Indian or Alaska Native people (11.6%) and White people (11.0%). Black or African American people had a lower rate at 9.6%.

The survey, conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), also found that a significant number of adults in the U.S. are using substances. The report stated that 167.2 million adults ages 12 and older (59%) used one or more substances within the past month.

When it comes to specific substances, the data varies among demographics. For instance, Hispanic people have a higher rate of alcohol use (32.5%) and cannabis use (5.8%), while tobacco products or vaping nicotine account for 10.3% of their substance use. Asian people, on the other hand, have a higher rate of tobacco products or vaping nicotine use (17.9%) and cannabis use (12.4%), but a lower rate of alcohol use (32.5%).

The NSDUH report shows that illegal drug use rates among different racial or ethnic groups are not significantly different. However, the rates of substance use and misuse may vary among other demographics such as sex, age, economic status, sexual orientation, and more.

For ages 12 to 17 years, the highest substance use is cannabis, with a rate of 14.9%. The use of other illegal substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, hallucinogens, inhalants, and prescription drugs is relatively low in this age group.

As for adults, the 2023 NSDUH report indicates that adults aged 18 to 25 years are most likely to consume more than four or five alcoholic drinks on a single occasion in the last month. For ages 26 and older, the rate of excessive alcohol consumption decreases.

It's important to note that not every individual who uses the listed substances will have or develop a substance use disorder, but ongoing or frequent use may lead to dependence and addiction. Anyone seeking to reduce their use of illegal or legal substances or stop altogether can find support and help from a healthcare professional.

Help is available for those dealing with addiction. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at 988, and SAMHSA can be reached at 800-662-4357 (TTY: 800-487-4889). It's never too late to seek help and start on the path to recovery.

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