Chapter 11 - Public health approaches to address substance use: An urgent need of multisectoral engagement

Abstract

Substance use is a global public health problem that requires immediate attention and mobilization of many stakeholders. In the year 2018, it was estimated that 269 million people worldwide used drugs, but the 2021 World Drug Report projects an increase of 30 million people, with a 40% growth in Africa, by the year 2030. This chapter will discuss the needs for and successes achieved in linking the principles and approaches of public health practice across sectors as well as challenges in undertaking macro- and micro-level policy interventions when addressing substance use disorders. As better evidence on various approaches is becoming available, this chapter will also discuss strategies to sustain the effect of interventions on behavioral health as they relate to decreasing substance use and addressing the needs of individuals, families, and communities afflicted by the disease of addiction.