The US Has the Highest Rate of Illicit Drug Use in the World

A recent survey reveals that despite strict anti-drug legislation, the United States has the highest rate of illicit drug use worldwide. According to a World Health Organization study of 17 nations' legal and illicit drug usage, including the Netherlands and other nations with laxer drug regulations, Americans consume cocaine and marijuana at the highest rates. For instance, Americans were four times as likely to report having used cocaine in their lifetime as New Zealanders, who were the next closest nation (16% vs. 4%).

When it comes to cocaine consumption, Scotland is ranked first in the world, but that is just one substance. The United States holds the title of having the greatest usage rates for illegal drugs when considered as a whole. More than any other country, more than 5% of Americans meet the criteria for drug dependence.

Only Belarus surpassed the US's drug-related death rate of 22.03 per 100,000 persons; however, Belarus's stats were attributable to alcohol rather than drugs. Approximately 32 million Americans used drugs in 2021. Meth, along with marijuana and prescription stimulants, topped the list.