Gestor bibliográfico Crisis y Salud

The publication of this special focus issue represents a unique opportunity to discuss the impact of what has been called the "Great Recession" of 2008-2009 on drug use. There are few studies on how drug use is influenced by the main macro-economic variables, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and unemployment. This collection of articles from different parts of the world studying a variety of drugs, aims to trigger debate and shed some light on future developments. Though the number of articles selected is relatively small, each of them adds an element to an understanding of the problem. In addition to analyzing the main consequences of the current economic downturn, all authors share a concern for improving data availability and for continuing research. The exceptional nature of the present crisis may provoke exceptional changes in drug use, for which evidence is still limited. Additionally, the impact of this crisis will also depend on public responses. Public policy in the areas of treatment, employment and social re-integration will be decisive in providing adequate answers to the coming problems. If too much driven by concerns about austerity and cuts in health and welfare, public policy might actually become part of the problem, amplifying the first round of undesirable consequences of this crisis.