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Erfurt (dpa / th) - Addiction experts see drug addicts at particular risk during the corona pandemic.
The coordinator of the Thuringian State Office for Addiction Issues, Sebastian Weiske, expects the number of drug deaths in the Free State to increase further in the Corona year 2020.
Due to a weakened immune system due to drug consumption and underlying diseases, they belonged to the absolute corona risk group, said the expert from the German Press Agency.
In addition, drug addicts paid less attention to their health.
The exact number of drug deaths will probably be published in spring with the police crime statistics for Thuringia.
According to statistics, 26 drug deaths between the ages of 19 and 50 were recorded in the Free State in 2019, nine more than in the previous year.
In comparison: In 2017, 15 people died because of their drug use, in 2016 there were 12 drug deaths.
In addition to overdoses, accidents such as falling stairs or suicides were also registered as causes of death.
According to the state office, cannabis and crystal meth are most commonly consumed in Thuringia.
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It can be observed that the number of people seeking help is also increasing in the Free State.
In 2019, around 2,500 drug addicts visited outpatient counseling centers and withdrawal clinics, around 200 more than in 2018. However, not all facilities are included in the statistics.
According to Health Minister Heike Werner (Linke), addiction problems and drug consumption are now spreading through all social and almost all age groups.
"This shows that we have to take long-term preventive measures against drug use and substance abuse," said Werner.
The available offers for prevention and education should be made better known and made aware of.
"Drug addiction and substance abuse should no longer be taboo."
State office for addiction issues