Filenews 20 March 2024
Significant use of methamphetamine in Cyprus, but lower levels of use than the European average for other substances, shows a Pan-European Wastewater Analysis Survey, as stated in an announcement by the Cyprus Addictions Authority (AAEK).
It is noted that traditionally in Europe methamphetamine use was mainly limited to the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but now significant use appears to exist in Belgium, Germany, Spain, some northern countries, but also in Cyprus. However, the survey shows that the increasing trend observed in methamphetamine use in our country in recent years does not continue this year, with most areas showing a slight decrease in methamphetamine consumption, while Paphos and Ayia Napa observe similar levels as last year.
As mentioned by Dr. Despo Fatta-Kasinou, Professor at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Nireus International Water Research Center of the University of Cyprus, Nireus has been participating since 2012 in the European SCORE network, with amphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy) and cocaine use data (Nicosia and Limassol), while in recent years, with the full support of the Cyprus Addictions Authority, data have been analyzed that now concern all urban areas of the country (Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos and Ayia Napa). In addition, with the financial support of AAEK, in the laboratories of NIREUS in 2021 it was developed by researcher Dr. Psychoudaki methodology that tests wastewater for levels of oxycodone, mephedrone, ketamine and its metabolites, as well as heroin and its metabolites.
The pan-European survey published today presents trends in consumption of amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, ketamine and cannabis, with the findings of particular interest.
Amphetamine
Amphetamine use was found relatively low in most southern European countries, while higher levels of use were recorded by the EMCDDA in cities in northern and northeastern Europe (Sweden, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands). In Cyprus, it is reported that amphetamine appeared for yet another year to have low consumption compared to other European countries, but showing a slight upward trend.
Cocaine
Research shows relatively low levels of cocaine use in most European countries. The trio of Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain once again hold the reins in the consumption of this substance, as cities in these countries again measured the highest concentrations. In Cyprus, it is noted that a small increase was found in Limassol and Ayia Napa, with cocaine use at last year's levels in the rest of the country, and relatively low compared to the European average. The EMCDDA also highlights the small but increasing trend in Europe-wide use of the substance.
MDMA
Greater use of MDMA seems to be made in central European cities (Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands) but also in Spain. In Cyprus, MDMA consumption levels are low, but its use was increased in most cities of Cyprus (except Limassol and Larnaka) compared to the previous year.
Hemp
Cannabis use shows mixed trends in this year's survey, with about half of the cities surveyed showing an increase in cannabis use, and a steady or declining trend in the rest. Highest use is recorded in the Czech Republic, Spain, the Netherlands and Slovenia. In Cyprus, although widespread, cannabis use is quite low compared to the European average.
Ketamine
Ketamine use has been monitored in Europe for two years. The results of the latest survey show that the use of this substance is quite limited in the European continent, with the highest consumption occurring in Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Spain, while very low levels were also found in Cyprus.
It is also mentioned that the President of the Cyprus Addictions Authority, Dr. Christos Minas, emphasizes the importance of urban wastewater analysis research as a critical tool for AAEK. This approach, integrating international scientific practices and theoretical models, allows for a more detailed understanding of trends in substance use in different regions and countries.
