substance abuse in wyoming 2005

State of the State of Substance Abuse in WyomingDr. Ann ReyesWyoming Department of HealthSubstance Abuse Division

January 18, 2005

Data Sources:Wyoming Highway PatrolDivision of Criminal InvestigationDrug Enforcement Agency Wyoming Client Information SystemWyoming Youth Risk Behavorial SurveyPrevention Needs AssessmentBehavorial Risk Factor Surveillance SystemWyoming Survey & Analysis CenterMaternal and Child HealthPregnancy Wellness AssessmentDepartment of Family ServicesWyoming Department of HealthSubstance Abuse Division

Trend MeasurementsData collection and/or design are subject to modifications from year to year.

Methological differences may impact comparability of data across years.

Forecasts of future trends may not be statistical in quality.

Data sources in each measurement area remain the same, however the data collection instruments and/or design are subject to modifications from year to year.

Improvements of data collection quality control procedures may also affect comparability of data across years.

Because of these factors, data should not be directly compared via parametic statistical methods.

Nicotine, Alcohol and Illicit Drug Use

Drug and Alcohol-Related Arrests

Prevention-Related Measures

Pregnant Mothers and Drug Endangered Children

Substance Abuse Treatment and Costs vs. Alternatives

Topics:

1. Nicotine, Alcohol and Illicit Drug Use

The rates of nicotine, alcohol and illicit drug use directly respond to changes in public attitude and differing economic, political and social environments.

Historically, the rates of nicotine (tobacco), alcohol, and illicit drug use have varied in direct response to changes in public attitude and differing economic, political and social environments.

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In general, rates of smoking increased starting at the turn of the 20th Century. This increase continued until the 1960s when rates leveled and began showing a decrease immediately following the first Surgeon Generals report in 1964 linking cigarette smoking with serious health problems.

The trend in smoking has generally decreased ever since that time, with rates currently where they were just prior to the sharp increase in the 1940s.

In addition to smoking beginning to decrease in the 1960s, drug use began to decline in the late 1970s and alcohol use in the early 1980s. Reasons for these decreasing trends are attributed to social policy and increased awareness and prevention efforts.

However, the rates of both smoking and illicit drug use began to increase again in 1990 and continued this trend through 1996.

A social, economic and political analysis of the factors contributing to this increase revealed several factors. First, there was a decrease in the perception of potential harm from use. Second, there was a decrease in prevalence of anti-drug messages in the media, and from schools and parents. Third, there was an increase in pro-use messages from the entertainment industry.There was a deliberate increase in marketing by the tobacco industry. This resulted in increases in smoking which has been shown to be highly correlated with subsequent alcohol and illicit drug use.

These historical trends offer a potential road map for Wyomings efforts to address its substance abuse problem in the state.

Nicotine use is the single most preventable cause of disease and death in the United States.

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In addition to smoking beginning to decrease in the 1960s, alcohol use began to decline in the early 1980s.

Reasons for these decreasing trends are attributed to social policy and increased awareness and prevention efforts.

Percent SmokingSOURCE: YRBS 1995-2003

Like national statistics, Wyoming trends in tobacco use directly correlate to changes in the political and social environments.

Keep in mind, unlike the previous national statistics, this Wyoming-specific graph displays the most current data, covering 1995-2003. Hence the trends in this graph do not appear as extreme as the national graphs (which covers decades).

In Wyoming, one of every five deaths is attributable to the use of tobacco.

According to BRFSS, 2003 data, an estimated 32.7% of Wyomingites use some form of tobacco. About 7.6% of Wyoming adults report current smokeless tobacco use (down 1.1% from 2002), almost all of which is by males (14.9% males versus 0.3% of females).

Any Form by Education

49.6

40

32.5

18.6

% Using Tobacco of Any Form

Current Tobacco Use of Any Form by EducationWyoming, 2003Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

DATA

CURRENT TOBACCO

gender

TOTAL24.6

MALE25.1

FEMALE24.1

age

18-2430.4

25-3431.9

35-4427.4

45-5425.0

55-6419.7

65+12.8

education

< High school grad49.6

High school grad40.0

Some college32.5

College grad18.6

Any form by gender

24.6

25.1

24.1

% Using Tobacco

Current Tobacco Use of Any Form by Gender, Wyoming 2003Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

Any Form by age

30.4

31.9

27.4

25

19.7

12.8

% Tobacco Use of Any Form

Current Tobacco Use of Any Form by Age, Wyoming 2003Behaviroal Risk Factor Surveillance System

Level of education is negatively correlated with smoking.

The higher the education level the less likely the individual is to use tobacco of any kind (10.5% adults with college degrees versus 44% with less than a high school education smoke).

Only 18.6% of college graduates use tobacco (any form) compared to nearly a 50% use rate by individuals who have not graduated from high school. (BRFSS, 2003)

A rather alarming finding is that the highest rate of tobacco use (all forms) is among males ages 18-24 (41.9 %) and 25-34 (41.5%)

Wyoming 2004 PNA shows that smoking rates are similar for school aged boys and girls. Among 6th grade students, there were significantly more female smokeless tobacco users than males, a trend that is the reverse at all other ages.

Any Form by age

41.9

41.5

37.7

32.2

25.3

16.7

% Tobacco Use of Any Form

Current Tobacco Use of Any Form by AgeWyoming 2003Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

DATA

CURRENT TOBACCO

TOTAL24.6

MALE25.1

FEMALE24.1

18-2441.9

25-3441.5

35-4437.7

45-5432.2

55-6425.3

65+16.7

Any form by gender

24.6

25.1

24.1

% Using Tobacco

Current Tobacco Use of Any Form by Gender, Wyoming 2003Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

Tobacco use is also indirectly related to age. The highest rates of tobacco use are found in the 18-24 year old population.

More than 29.4% of Wyoming adults currently smoke cigarettes on at least some days, with24.6 % smoking daily (BRFSS, 2003).

Smoking among men is slightly higher (25.1 %) that among women (24.1 %).

Current Smokers - YRBS

39.539.839.2

37.436.738.1

35.235.934.6

28.429.627

2626.425.8

Total

Male

Female

% Who smoked in last 30 days

WYOMING STUDENTS WHO CURRENTLY SMOKE

Smokers YRBS

39.5

37.4

35.2

28.4

26

% Current Smokers

WYOMING STUDENTS - CURRENT SMOKERS (YRBS)

DATA

TotalMaleFemale

199539.539.839.2

199737.436.738.1

199935.235.934.6

200128.429.627

20032626.425.8

Sheet2

Sheet3

Tobacco use among all Wyoming high school students, as reported on the YRBS, has shown a steady decline of statistical significance from 1997 through 2003 with the total rate dropping by 18% during that period.

These findings are of great significance for policy-makers since this data represents the outcomes of several important, state-wide anti-smoking efforts.

Significant social marketing, community services, education, social policy, law/ordinance changes were made just prior to and during these years. For example: removal of sale tax exemption on cigarettesexcise tax of 20% on smokeless tobaccoexcise tax of $.60 on each pack of cigarettesincreased funding from multiple sources to support efforts to prevent and decrease use of tobacco in Wyomingsmoke free ordinances being passed in communitiesDepartment of Health given clear authority to enforce access lawsWyoming QuitLine service begins as well as other important events.

Wyoming Decisions lead to Positive OutcomesIt is clear that when policy-makers enact changes, rate of tobacco use changes accordingly.

A large-scale, multi-year initiative to combat the use of a drug, in this case the stimulant nicotine, are effective if they are consistently applied and adequately funded.

(Currently, our efforts to combat methamphetamine use are similar to those embarked upon with nicotine in 1997.)

Using our previous experience as a guide, it is clear that when policy-makers enact changes, rate of tobacco use changes accordingly.

Source: PNA, 2004.

WYOMING YOUTH:According to the 2004 PNA, many of Wyomings youth are drinking, and are drinking heavily.

Although only 6% of 6th grade students reported drinking during the past 30-days, the drinking rate climbs to 24% by 8th grade.

Approximately 41% of 10th grade students report drinking, while 53% of 12th grade students drank in the past 30-days.

In contrast, the national rates of past 30-day drinking were approximately 20%, 35%, and 48% for 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students

A high percentage of older youth also reported a recent episode of heavy drinking, defined as five or more drinks on one occasion during the past two weeks. Although only 6% of 6th grade students reported recent heavy drinking, 15% of 8th grade students reported a recent binge. By 10th grade, the percentage of students reporting a recent episode of heavy drinking climbs to 27%. A full 37% of 12th grade students reported binge drinking, contrasted with the national average of 28% for this grade.

WYOMING ADULTS:

When asked about use within the past 30 days, a total of 59% of Wyoming adults consumed alcohol,19.8% reported binge drinking, and6.5% reported heavy drinking with rates among males and females being roughly equal (6.7% and 6.4% respectively).

The highest rates of binge drinking were for males age 18-24 (36.3%), an alarming figure since drinking is illegal for half of the population represented in this age group.

Additionally in 2002, 18-24 year old maleshad the highest rate of drinking and driving at7.0% compared to3.1% for all Wyoming adults

Alcohol use data for Wyoming adults (18+) was obtained in the BRFSS on rates of binge drinking (5+ drinks per occasion at least once in past 30 days), heavy drinking (males 2+ and females 1+ drink per day in past 30 days), and drinking and driving (driving after drinking at least once in past 30 days).

High RiskYouth in alternative high schools rates of nicotine, alcohol and illicit drug use are significantly higher than rates of all Wyoming high school students.

Source: YRBS

Chart1

56.188.4

21.551.2

34.747.8

4969.5

39.485.3

11.641.7

High School

Alternative High School

Use Rates (Percent)

Alternative High School Students are at High Risk

Sheet1

TOBACCO USE

High SchoolAlternative High School

Ever tried cigarette smoking56.188.4

Smoked whole cigarette before age 1321.551.2

ALCOHOL USE


Tried alcohol before age 1334.747.8

Drank alcohol during last 30 days4969.5

MARIJUANA USE


Ever tried marijuana39.485.3

OTHER DRUG USE


Ever used methamphetamines11.641.7

Sheet2

Sheet3

Youth in Wyoming alternative high schools typically have many more risk factors for nicotine, alcohol, and illicit drug abuse and fewer protective factors.

Data from the YRBS support this assertion completely, as use of all substances is strikingly higher among this population.

The graph compares the use rates among alternative high school students with all high school students in Wyoming.

Without exception, youth in alternative high schools rates of use are significantly higher.

High RiskSource: YRBS

TOBACCO USEHigh SchoolAlternative High School Ever tried cigarette smoking56.188.4Smoked whole cigarette before age 1321.551.2ALCOHOL USEHigh SchoolAlternative High School Tried alcohol before age 1334.747.8Drank alcohol during last 30 days4969.5MARIJUANA USEHigh SchoolAlternative High School Ever tried marijuana39.485.3METHAMPHETAMINE USEHigh SchoolAlternative High School Ever used methamphetamines11.641.7

Ann here is the table format of the same graphed data if you prefer.

Implications of Early Use of Nicotine and AlcoholVirtually everyone who used illegal drugs, such as marijuana or cocaine had previously used cigarettes, alcohol, or both. Surgeon Generals report (1998) summarizing the research (Fleming, 89; Kandel, 93).

The younger the age of first use, the more likely problems will result, especially if first use is prior to 15 years old.

Because nicotine (tobacco) and alcohol are typically tried before other illicit drugs such as marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine or hallucinogens, they are often referred to as gateway drugs.

Nicotine use in adolescents is a powerful predictor of alcohol and other drug use.

The most common sequence of first use confirms the importance of nicotine and alcohol in the progression of illegal drug use. These findings are particularly pronounced for females.

Additionally, the age when an adolescent first begins using nicotine, alcohol and/or illicit drugs is also a powerful predictor of later alcohol and substance use problems.

The younger the age of first use, the more likely problems will result, especially if first use is prior to 15 years old. These individuals are more likely to be heavy users later on.

Nicotine and MethamphetamineThe use of the stimulant nicotine primes the pump for stronger stimulant use like cocaine and methamphetamine.

The younger the first nicotine use, the higher the risk for both meth and cocaine use (unpublished CDC data).

Much of the longitudinal research on stimulants was done on cocaine use HOWEVER, there are marked pharmacological and clinical similarities between cocaine and meth. THEREFORE , research on cocaine is relevant to methamphetamine use.

The 1994 Surgeon Generals Report documents that 12-17 year olds who had smoked in the past 30 days were 22 times more likely to have used cocaine in the past 30 days.

There are established physiologic mechanisms that explain how nicotine facilitates later use of alcohol and other drugs. This occurs via the dopaminergic reward system which is critical in mediating the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse.

Nicotine and Methamphetamine in WyomingThe progression of use from nicotine to more potent stimulants has held true in Wyoming with startling consistency.

In Wyoming, 20%, or one fifth, of high school students who tried cigarettes also tried methamphetamine.

Just as alarming is that 93% of Wyoming high school students who had tried methamphetamines also tried cigarettes.

2. Drug and Alcohol Related Arrests

Laramie County

CountyYearMeth CasesMeth LabsTotal Drug CasesTotal CasesDrug/Total %

Laramie1999N/AN/A2,3696,05939.10%

Laramie2000N/A52,0015,69035.17%

Laramie2001N/A61,965.005,442.0036.11%

Laramie2002N/A241,8565,52333.60%

Laramie20033142,0055,43136.92%

Laramie2004163Not yet reported as of Nov 18, 2004

Current to Nov 18, 2004

2000 population = 81,607

Natrona County

County2000 popYearMeth CasesMeth LabsTotal Drug CasesTotal CasesDrug/Total %

Natrona66,5331999N/AN/A2,1476,43733.35%

Natrona66,5332000N/A32,2946,44835.58%

Natrona66,5332001N/A22,581.006,786.0038.03%

Natrona66,5332002N/A61,9506,04732.25%

Natrona66,53320033352,1646,81531.75%

Laramie81,6072004163N/AN/AN/A

http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/

Alcohol 1999

County2000 popYearDUI AdultDUI JuvenileLiquor Laws AdultLiquor Laws JuvenileDrunkenness AdultDrunkenness JuvenileTOTAL ETOH cases

Albany32,01419993204813952111254

Big Horn11,461199926030252083

Campbell33,698199934714212150602785

Carbon15,6391999110214467325360

Converse12,052199990210758133273

Crook5,887199939023214087

Fremont35,80419993531351521126701359

Goshen12,53819998438428150214

Hot Springs4,8821999191454390117

Johnson7,07519995511513170101

Laramie81,60719996021065339416511825

Lincoln14,5731999158247212719274

Natrona66,53319994111853737439191740

Niobrara2,4071999401053022

Park25,7861999155625689160522

Platte8,80719991340482741214

Sheridan26,56019992483153102610567

Sublette5,920199975033710116

Sweetwater37,613199931282142121902938

Teton18,251199923623441975478

Uinta19,74219992631139163790645

Washakie8,28919994010745690189

Weston6,644199942114168081

TOTAL493,78241231014200218115914812244

Source:Wyoming Attorney General

Department of Criminal Investigation Web Site

Uniform Crime Report 1999

http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/1999ucr.pdf

and

Department of Criminal Investigation , Claire Ley, Nov. 2004

N/A = Not Available


1999 drug cases


Albany32,0141999N/AN/A0.00%

Big Horn11,4611999N/AN/A0.00%

Campbell33,6981999N/AN/A0.00%

Carbon15,6391999N/AN/A0.00%

Converse12,0521999N/AN/A0.00%

Crook5,8871999N/AN/A0.00%

Fremont35,8041999N/AN/A0.00%

Goshen12,5381999N/AN/A0.00%

Hot Springs4,8821999N/AN/A0.00%

Johnson7,0751999N/AN/A0.00%

Laramie81,6071999N/AN/A2,3696,05939.10%

Lincoln14,5731999N/AN/A0.00%

Natrona66,5331999N/AN/A2,1476,43733.35%

Niobrara2,4071999N/AN/A0.00%

Park25,7861999N/AN/A0.00%

Platte8,8071999N/AN/A0.00%

Sheridan26,5601999N/AN/A0.00%

Sublette5,9201999N/AN/A0.00%

Sweetwater37,6131999N/AN/A0.00%

Teton18,2511999N/AN/A0.00%

Uinta19,7421999N/AN/A0.00%

Washakie8,2891999N/AN/A0.00%

Weston6,6441999N/AN/A0.00%

TOTAL493,782004,51612,49636.14%




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/1999ucr.pdf

and


N/A = Not Available


Alcohol 2000


Albany32,014200031647411102501,196

Big Horn11,4612000320343930108

Campbell33,69820004045210114730806

Carbon15,639200019891661243515547

Converse12,05220008821004672245

Crook5,887200049025147095

Fremont35,80420003921030117927801,160

Goshen12,538200011031115140279

Hot Springs4,88220001825925190123

Johnson7,07520006503718200140

Laramie81,6072000535765018710911,489

Lincoln14,57320001363361497205

Natrona66,533200059818558322373281,897

Niobrara2,407200070330114

Park25,78620001393211102150470

Platte8,80720001041592050189

Sheridan26,56020002595187113330597

Sublette5,92020006302823096

Sweetwater37,613200030941701681567814

Teton18,2512000243114101181387

Uinta19,7422000253320935951596

Washakie8,289200069277391310210

Weston6,644200023025131062

TOTAL493,7824410824011174814017311,725




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/2000crime.pdf

and


N/A = Not Available


2000 drug cases


Albany32,0142000N/A30.00%

Big Horn11,4612000N/A00.00%

Campbell33,6982000N/A20.00%

Carbon15,6392000N/A10.00%

Converse12,0522000N/A00.00%

Crook5,8872000N/A10.00%

Fremont35,8042000N/A00.00%

Goshen12,5382000N/A00.00%

Hot Springs4,8822000N/A10.00%

Johnson7,0752000N/A00.00%

Laramie81,6072000N/A52,0015,69035.17%

Lincoln14,5732000N/A00.00%

Natrona66,5332000N/A32,2946,44835.58%

Niobrara2,4072000N/A00.00%

Park25,7862000N/A00.00%

Platte8,8072000N/A00.00%

Sheridan26,5602000N/A00.00%

Sublette5,9202000N/A00.00%

Sweetwater37,6132000N/A20.00%

Teton18,2512000N/A00.00%

Uinta19,7422000N/A10.00%

Washakie8,2892000N/A10.00%

Weston6,6442000N/A10.00%

TOTAL493,7820214,29512,13835.38%




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/2000crime.pdf

and


N/A = Not Available


Alcohol 2001


Albany32,0142001191849462400795

Big Horn11,461200121039114479

Campbell33,69820013968229102793817

Carbon15,6392001194517893428520

Converse12,05220017837521102189

Crook5,8872001653432230136

Fremont35,80420014166253109720856

Goshen12,5382001672844090202

Hot Springs4,882200125113913061

Johnson7,07520017813618260159

Laramie81,6072001561549214811901325

Lincoln14,573200117513772310253

Natrona66,53320016331274436934952112

Niobrara2,4072001601000622

Park25,7862001138418782300441

Platte8,80720011062512710187

Sheridan26,5602001244329682100635

Sublette5,92020014702836084

Sweetwater37,61320013618929921010780

Teton18,2512001246427211450443

Uinta19,742200125526415893428

Washakie8,28920016534712164147

Weston6,64420011701561443

TOTAL493,7824385813534135812975910714




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/2001AnnualReport.pdf

and



2001 drug cases


Albany32,0142001N/A30.00%

Big Horn11,4612001N/A00.00%

Campbell33,6982001N/A00.00%

Carbon15,6392001N/A10.00%

Converse12,0522001N/A00.00%

Crook5,8872001N/A10.00%

Fremont35,8042001N/A20.00%

Goshen12,5382001N/A00.00%

Hot Springs4,8822001N/A20.00%

Johnson7,0752001N/A10.00%

Laramie81,6072001N/A61,965.005,442.0036.11%

Lincoln14,5732001N/A10.00%

Natrona66,5332001N/A22,581.006,786.0038.03%

Niobrara2,4072001N/A00.00%

Park25,7862001N/A20.00%

Platte8,8072001N/A00.00%

Sheridan26,5602001N/A00.00%

Sublette5,9202001N/A00.00%

Sweetwater37,6132001N/A70.00%

Teton18,2512001N/A10.00%

Uinta19,7422001N/A20.00%

Washakie8,2892001N/A00.00%

Weston6,6442001N/A10.00%

TOTAL493,782N/A324,546.0012,228.0037.18%





and



Alcohol 2002


Albany32,0142002262459855480967

Big Horn11,46120022601374050

Campbell33,69820023964220155851861

Carbon15,63920021934205133202557

Converse12,05220021053693381219

Crook5,8872002532381760116

Fremont35,8042002493825161500863

Goshen12,538200279111839190256

Hot Springs4,882200214033185070

Johnson7,07520026213414110122

Laramie81,6072002587337614111201219

Lincoln14,57320021692551173247

Natrona66,53320024441047331033561578

Niobrara2,40720022000002

Park25,7862002132114661380378

Platte8,807200285315600109

Sheridan26,56020022665285136510743

Sublette5,92020025901547085

Sweetwater37,61320023033126571429640

Teton18,2512002194136261710428

Uinta19,74220022135903882401

Washakie8,2892002428262050101

Weston6,6442002201082022

TOTAL493,7824181683232131512142410034

Sources: 1. Wyoming Attorney General




and

2. Department of Criminal Investigation , Claire Ley, Nov. 2004

3. U.S. Bureau of the Census


2002 drug cases


Albany32,0142002N/A21,0891,95755.65%

Big Horn11,4612002N/A05512942.64%

Campbell33,6982002N/A11,1094,83522.94%

Carbon15,6392002N/A19961,70158.55%

Converse12,0522002N/A132759954.59%

Crook5,8872002N/A013928049.64%

Fremont35,8042002N/A71,0422,26346.05%

Goshen12,5382002N/A026971537.62%

Hot Springs4,8822002N/A19426235.88%

Johnson7,0752002N/A415026656.39%

Laramie81,6072002N/A241,8565,52333.60%

Lincoln14,5732002N/A132452961.25%

Natrona66,5332002N/A61,9506,04732.25%

Niobrara2,4072002N/A02450.00%

Park25,7862002N/A143592846.88%

Platte8,8072002N/A113828748.08%

Sheridan26,5602002N/A68872,23639.67%

Sublette5,9202002N/A010026537.74%

Sweetwater37,6132002N/A48632,49934.53%

Teton18,2512002N/A048475763.94%

Uinta19,7422002N/A03811,11234.26%

Washakie8,2892002N/A013928249.29%

Weston6,6442002N/A05211943.70%

TOTAL493,78206012,88133,59538.34%





and




2003 drug cases


Albany32,0142003501,0801,91256.49%

Big Horn11,461200340278631.40%

Campbell33,69820031639014,91018.35%

Carbon15,6392003705151,49834.38%

Converse12,05220034232357556.17%

Crook5,88720030212222953.28%

Fremont35,8042003528601,93944.35%

Goshen12,53820032024661839.81%

Hot Springs4,88220031113329245.55%

Johnson7,07520033013424454.92%

Laramie81,60720033142,0055,43136.92%

Lincoln14,57320031025843858.90%

Natrona66,53320033352,1646,81531.75%

Niobrara2,4072003001425.00%

Park25,78620037153096355.04%

Platte8,80720034116433548.96%

Sheridan26,5602003317981,92941.37%

Sublette5,92020031015235842.46%

Sweetwater37,61320032511,0282,69838.10%

Teton18,25120032045174660.46%

Uinta19,74220032215381,08649.54%

Washakie8,28920030018233154.98%

Weston6,6442003114516028.13%

TOTAL493,7821772512,65733,59737.67%




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/pdf/2004%20Annual.pdf

and




Alcohol 2003


Albany32,0142003225064748200940

Big Horn11,4612003151430225

Campbell33,6982003331215483940664

Carbon15,639200316111388160387

Converse12,0522003861796020228

Crook5,887200371021562105

Fremont35,8042003136294491010382

Goshen12,538200310537324111217

Hot Springs4,8822003420271910098

Johnson7,0752003581343120108

Laramie81,6072003536955029518411575

Lincoln14,57320031595166141201

Natrona66,533200356312410219396181618

Niobrara2,40720031000001

Park25,7862003164420468420482

Platte8,807200395127510129

Sheridan26,560200327712270121380718

Sublette5,920200384021280115

Sweetwater37,61320033089112692323733

Teton18,2512003221234141320403

Uinta19,742200321356221082392

Washakie8,28920037334624110157

Weston6,64420031901124036

TOTAL493,782394373303412021432309714




http://attorneygeneral.state.wy.us/dci/pdf/2004%20Annual.pdf

and




2004 drug cases

County2000 popYearMeth CasesMeth Labs*Total Drug CasesTotal Cases

Albany32,014200481

Big Horn11,461200400

Campbell33,698200440

Carbon15,639200491

Converse12,052200411

Crook5,887200400

Fremont35,804200481

Goshen12,538200420

Hot Springs4,882200411

Johnson7,075200410

Laramie81,6072004163

Lincoln14,573200420

Natrona66,5332004314

Niobrara2,407200400

Park25,786200421

Platte8,807200421

Sheridan26,560200451

Sublette5,920200410

Sweetwater37,6132004350

Teton18,251200410

Uinta19,7422004150

Washakie8,289200410

Weston6,644200420

493,7821471500

Sources: 1. Wyoming Attorney Generalcurrentas of Nov. 18, 2004



and




DATA

PERCENTAGE OF ARRESTS FOR ALCOHOL ADULT V. JUVENILE - WYOMING

ADULTJUVENILE

199981.019.0

200083.816.2

200186.014.0

200285.314.7

200386.613.4

PERCENTAGE OF DRUG ARRESTS OUT OF TOTAL ARRESTS

200035.38

200137.18

200238.34

200337.67

ADULTJUVENILE2000 POP >192000 POP 10-19AdultJuvenile

1999991423303484368027928.529.0

2000982219033484368027928.223.7

2001921614983484368027926.418.7

2002862714073484368027924.817.5

2003840913053484368027924.116.3

ADULT V. JUVENILE ALCOHOL

8119

83.816.2

8614

85.314.7

86.613.4

ADULT

JUVENILE

% of total alcohol violation arrests

PERCENTAGE OF ALCOHOL VIOLATION ARRESTS-ADULTS V. JUVENILES

DRUG CHART

35.38

37.18

38.34

37.67

% of drug violation arrests

PERCENTAGE OF DRUG VIOLATION ARRESTS OUT OF TOTAL ARRESTSDEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS(?)

ARREST RATES

28.452857913629.0237795688

28.188820902523.7048294074

26.449620590318.6599235167

24.759209725717.526376761

24.133556808116.2558078701

Adult

Juvenile

Source: Division of Criminal Investigation and Wyoming Department of Health Substance Abuse Division

Arrest Rate

ALCOHOL RELATED ARRESTS HAVE DECREASED (RATE PER 1,000 POPULATION)

In Wyoming, there has been a decreasing trend in the number of adult and juvenile arrests that involve the use of alcohol between 1999 and 2003.

Despite that, Wyoming continues to be well above the national average for alcohol-related arrests.

In 2002, 24.1% of all arrests nationwide involved alcohol compared to 34.2% of all arrests in Wyoming that involved alcohol. Division of Criminal Investigation, 2002.

These data provide evidence that our efforts to aggressively counter the substance abuse problem are in fact, turning the curve toward successfully addressing this problem.

Efforts to curb substance abuse in Wyoming have caused a decreasing trend in alcohol-related arrests, and to sustain this decreasing trend, we must continue our efforts to decrease substance abuse in Wyoming.

Alcohol Cases greater than avg

32.1859186606

30.3216318179

26.8889122691

25.807172383

24.9417485564

24.5481927711

23.4398115172

23.3426316102

22.0465711589


Cases per 1,000 population

Total Adult and Juvenile Arrests involving Alcohol (Cases per 1,000 Population)1999-2003

Sheet1

Total Alcohol cases per 1000 people

County2000 pop199920002001200220035 yr averageCounty2000 pop

Albany32,01439.1737.3624.8330.2129.3632.19Albany32,014

Big Horn11,4617.249.426.894.362.186.02Big Horn11,461

Campbell33,69823.3023.9224.2425.5519.7023.34Campbell33,698

Carbon15,63923.0234.9833.2535.6224.7530.32Carbon15,639

Converse12,05222.6520.3315.6818.1718.9219.15Converse12,052

Crook5,88714.7816.1423.1019.7017.8418.31Crook5,887

Fremont35,80437.9632.4023.9124.1010.6725.81Fremont35,804

Goshen12,53817.0722.2516.1120.4217.3118.63Goshen12,538

Hot Springs4,88223.9725.1912.4914.3420.0719.21Hot Springs4,882

Johnson7,07514.2819.7922.4717.2415.2717.81Johnson7,075

Laramie81,60722.3618.2516.2414.9419.3018.22Laramie81,607

Lincoln14,57318.8014.0717.3616.9513.7916.19Lincoln14,573

Natrona66,53326.1528.5131.7423.7224.3226.89Natrona66,533

Niobrara2,4079.145.829.140.830.425.07Niobrara2,407

Park25,78620.2418.2317.1014.6618.6917.78Park25,786

Platte8,80724.3021.4621.2312.3814.6518.80Platte8,807

Sheridan26,56021.3522.4823.9127.9727.0324.55Sheridan26,560

Sublette5,92019.5916.2214.1914.3619.4316.76Sublette5,920

Sweetwater37,61324.9421.6420.7417.0219.4920.76Sweetwater37,613

Teton18,25126.1921.2024.2723.4522.0823.44Teton18,251

Uinta19,74232.6730.1921.6820.3119.8624.94Uinta19,742

Washakie8,28922.8025.3317.7312.1818.9419.40Washakie8,289

Weston6,64412.199.336.473.315.427.34Weston6,644

State Avg.493,78224.8023.7521.7020.3219.6722.05Total493,782

Sheet2

Albany32,01439.1737.3624.8330.2129.3632.19

Carbon15,63923.0234.9833.2535.6224.7530.32

Natrona66,53326.1528.5131.7423.7224.3226.89

Fremont35,80437.9632.4023.9124.1010.6725.81

Uinta19,74232.6730.1921.6820.3119.8624.94

Sheridan26,56021.3522.4823.9127.9727.0324.55

Teton18,25126.1921.2024.2723.4522.0823.44

Campbell33,69823.3023.9224.2425.5519.7023.34

State Avg.248,24124.8023.7521.7020.3219.6722.05

Sweetwater37,61324.9421.6420.7417.0219.4920.76

Washakie8,28922.8025.3317.7312.1818.9419.40

Hot Springs4,88223.9725.1912.4914.3420.0719.21

Converse12,05222.6520.3315.6818.1718.9219.15

Platte8,80724.3021.4621.2312.3814.6518.80

Goshen12,53817.0722.2516.1120.4217.3118.63

Crook5,88714.7816.1423.1019.7017.8418.31

Laramie81,60722.3618.2516.2414.9419.3018.22

Johnson7,07514.2819.7922.4717.2415.2717.81

Park25,78620.2418.2317.1014.6618.6917.78

Sublette5,92019.5916.2214.1914.3619.4316.76

Lincoln14,57318.8014.0717.3616.9513.7916.19

Weston6,64412.199.336.473.315.427.34

Big Horn11,4617.249.426.894.362.186.02

Niobrara2,4079.145.829.140.830.425.07

Sheet3

Throughout Wyoming, a number of counties have been identified as areas with a greater number of alcohol-related arrests (per capita) than the state average.

WY juv arrests table

Wyoming Juvenile alcohol arrests

CountyTotal population%

DATA

Smoking-BRFSSCurrent SmokersSmokless Tobacco - Males

199923.916

200023.814.3

200122.216

200223.716.8

200324.614.9

Heavy Drinking

MaleFemale

20016.63.8

20026.65.1

2003

Binge DrinkingMaleFemale

200123.98.4

20022610.3

2003

Drug Arrests - Possession (Adult)MaleFemale

19991296236

20001284301

20011507309

20021549359

20031482433

Drug Arrests - Possession (Juvinile)MaleFemale

1999393107

2000344109

200142585

200234494

200334090

Drug Arrests by Drug200120022003200120022003

Opiates2460.30.50.9

Cocaine2973444.89.76.4

Methamph.34643237457.357.554.4

Marijuana20822123234.429.433.7

Hallucinagens135202.20.72.9

Other616121.02.11.7

604751688

TOBACCO

23.916

23.814.3

22.216

23.716.8

24.614.9

Current Smokers

Smokless Tobacco - Males

% Using Tobacco Product

TOBACCO USE IN WYOMING - BRFSS DATA

DRUG ARRESTS - ADULT

1296236

1284301

1507309

1549359

1482433

Male

Female

Number of Arrests

WYOMING ARRESTS - DRUG POSSESSION (ADULT)

DRUG ARRESTS - JUVENILE

393107

344109

42585

34494

34090

Male

Female

Number of Arrests

WYOMING ARRESTS - DRUG POSSESSION (JUVENILE)

Arrests by Drug

0.33112582780.53262316910.8720930233

4.80132450339.72037283626.3953488372

57.284768211957.523302263654.3604651163

34.437086092729.427430093233.7209302326

2.15231788080.66577896142.9069767442

0.99337748342.13049267641.7441860465

2001

2002

2003


Percent of Total Arrests

WYOMING ARRESTS BY DRUG TYPE

Like alcohol, drug abuse is a significant contributor to criminal activity and arrests in the state of Wyoming.

The link between drug use and crime has been well documented (Anglin and Perrochet, 1998).

Drug-involved arrests include arrests made for the possession, sale, use, transport, growing or manufacturing of illegal drugs.

From 2000 to 2003, 37.14% of total arrests in Wyoming were made for drug violations.

When compared to the arrests made due to alcohol violations, drug arrests represented an average of 38% of the total arrests made in 2002 and 2003.

Nationally, the FBI reported 11.6% of all state and local arrests were made for drug abuse violations (Drug Policy Information Clearinghouse, 2004).

Wyoming has experienced a gradual decrease in drug arrests; however, the state far exceeds the national average of total arrests made for drug violations.

When compared to the arrests made due to alcohol violations, drug arrests represented an average of 38% of the total arrests made in 2002 and 2003.

Considering only the drug arrests, methamphetamine represents more than 50% of the total drug arrests in Wyoming, followed by marijuana (refer to section 3.3, Methamphetamine).

The number of arrests pertaining to drug possession (excluding alcohol) is significantly greater for adults than for juveniles in Wyoming.

Adult males are more often arrested for drug possession than females, however the percent of arrests involving drug possession by males has decreased from 84.5% to 77.4% between 1999 and 2003. This figure has increased for females from 15.4% to 22.5% from 1999 to 2003.

Male juveniles are also more likely to be arrested for drug possession than females. The number of juvenile arrests (male and female) relating to drug possession has remained relatively stable between 1999 and 2003. Approximately 79% of male juvenile arrests involved drug possession and 21% of female juvenile arrests involved drug possession between 1999 and 2003.

Nine counties throughout Wyoming have reported the number of substance abuse violations (excluding alcohol) from 1999 to 2003 to be greater than the state average (per 1000 individuals.

Carbon County had a significantly greater number of substance abuse violations (11.34 cases per 1000 population) in comparison to the average violations in the state (5.32 cases per 1000 population).

Summary: Illicit Drug Use in WYDrug use continues to be a significant problem in Wyoming as seen by the percent of arrests that are related to drug violations. Wyoming has seen a decreasing trend in the percent of arrests made for drug violations, however, the state continues to be well above the national average for drug arrests. Echoing Wyoming law enforcement and judicial officials, the levels of crime in Wyoming are directly related to the levels of alcohol and drug abuse. Therefore, by reducing the current levels of substance abuse, including the use of drugs, arrests and crimes in Wyoming would immediately diminish. By continuing to address the problem of drug use, Wyoming will make steps to address the related criminal behaviors.

Methamphetamine

The link between drug use and crime appears to also hold true for methamphetamine.

High rates of arrest, incarceration, and reported criminal behavior have been found for meth users in treatment. Meth users in treatment perceived a link between their meth use and violent behaviors. Reported numbers of arrests declined significantly following substance abuse treatment (Brecht et al., [accepted]).

Since the 1990s, methamphetamine has been considered the primary drug threat in Wyoming and has been a priority for federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant which affects the central nervous system and causes behaviors such as anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, hallucinations, mood swings, and delusions.

Violent behavior in particular is often reported by law enforcement to be related to meth use (Travis & Vareen, 2000).

Of the 6 neglect and abuse related deaths of children investigated by the Wyoming Child Fatality Review Board in 2003, 5 were associated with meth use by parents or caregivers

Both meth producers and abusers have been involved in violent crimes in Wyoming to obtain money to support their meth habits

A startling number of crimes include domestic violence ranging from child neglect to homicide.

Methamphetamine is truly a substance that has had direct effect on criminal activity in Wyoming.

In 1992, the Wyoming DCI began 20 meth-related investigations.

Between 1998 through 2000, the number of DCI meth-related investigations had escalated to 393 investigations initiated. (National Drug Intelligence Center, 2001).

The average number of drug arrests involving methamphetamine in Wyoming was 384 per year between 2001 thru 2003.

Methamphetamine arrests represent an average of 56.4% of all drug arrests (2001-2003).

The average percent of drug arrests in Wyoming involving methamphetamine has declined slightly between 2002 and 2003 (from 57.5% to 54.4% of all drug arrests).

However, given the extremely addictive properties of the drug, as well as the costs involved in addressing the meth-problem, Wyoming must continue to consider meth-prevention a chief priority

**excluding meth-lab seizuresSource: Division of Criminal Investigation

Methamphetamine Production Related Incidents

A methamphetamine production incident is defined as non-seizure lab incident, including incidents where there was sufficient evidence to be certain it was meth-related, but insufficient evidence to be considered a complete meth lab.

Several counties across the state have reported a greater number of methamphetamine production related incidents than the Wyoming average.

Both Natrona and Laramie Counties have had 21 or more meth production incidents within 1999 to 2004. The number of incidents reported in Natrona and Laramie Counties may be higher than other areas due to the fact that the state's only two Regional Enforcement Teams are located in those counties.

Other counties including Sweetwater and Fremont have had a significantly high number of meth production incidents. Across Wyoming, the WY DCI has reported 170 meth production incidents within 1999 to 2004.

Although these numbers represent specific methamphetamine problem areas in Wyoming, all of the state has been affected by methamphetamine abuse.

Seizures of Clandestine Meth Labs

Currently, most of the methamphetamine available in Wyoming is produced in Mexico and California, however, due to the high demand for methamphetamine in Wyoming, the production of the drug within the state in meth labs has greatly increased.

In 1997, DCI reported seizure of three clandestine meth labs in Wyoming.

By 2000, 19 clandestine labs had been seized in Wyoming.

In 2002, 60 clandestine meth labs were identified and seized in Wyoming; this figure was reduced in 2003 to 23 labs.

Sixteen meth labs were seized in 2004 in Wyoming.

From 2000 to 2004, a total of 150 meth labs were seized within the state of Wyoming.

It must be kept in mind that methamphetamine labs are of a clandestine nature, and thus the number of meth labs seized under-represents the total number of labs actually operating in Wyoming.

Millions of dollars are spent every year by federal, state and local governments for remediation of meth labs and the surrounding affected areas.

The average cost for clandestine meth lab cleanup is $24,500 per lab. This cost only includes the direct cost of federal HAZMAT cleanup (average $20,000) and the residual indoor clean-up (average $4,500).

Since 2000, 150 meth labs have been seized within Wyoming.

Based upon the rate for the direct cost of lab cleanup, the clean up costs for these labs totaled approximately $3,675,000.00.

Officials theorize that ten clandestine meth labs are in operation for every lab that is identified. Under these conditions, the cleanup costs alone would be estimated to be ten times greater

Methamphetamine abuse is a serious issue in Wyoming

Acute and chronic health affects on the user and those associated, including children.

Environmental repercussions

Wyoming must continue to keep methamphetamine issues at the forefront of its public policy.

Wyoming law enforcement and judicial officials agree that by reducing the current levels of alcohol and drug abuse, the amount of crime in Wyoming will immediately diminish.

The health affects of the drug on the user and those associated with him or her, including children, are extremely alarming.

The environmental repercussions of methamphetamine production are very serious.

To maintain the decreasing trend of the number of meth labs identified in Wyoming, as seen between 2002 and 2003, Wyoming must continue to keep methamphetamine issues at the forefront of its public policy

The data illustrates a clear connection between substance abuse and criminal activity in Wyoming.

The continued reduction of substance abuse in Wyoming will be reflected in decreased levels of crime and associated costs.

The cost for substance abuse treatment is very economical compared to the extraordinary costs of increased criminal activity, arrests and incarceration.

3. Prevention-Related Measures

Alcohol regulation laws and youth tobacco access laws are enforced through regular compliance checks.

Both alcohol and nicotine are legal substances, however, many federal, state and local regulations restrict their use.

The Substance Abuse Division of the Wyoming Department of Health works jointly with The Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police (WASCOP) to enforce the compliance of retailers to youth tobacco access laws through regular compliance checks.

Alcohol regulation laws are also enforced in Wyoming.

Although the nationwide drinking age of 21 was adopted in the late 1980s, the enforcement of minimum purchase age laws are uneven.

Anyone selling or furnishing alcohol to an individual under the age of 21, or individuals under the age of 21 in possession of alcohol are offenders.

The Wyoming Department of Health, working with local law enforcement agencies, individuals and organizations, enforce Wyoming statutes relating to the prohibition of the sale of alcohol products to minors.

Compliance checks are the principle vehicle for ensuring underage drinking statutes are adhered to in Wyoming.

Recall the graph illustrating the national trends of alcohol and cigarette use, as well as the trends of nicotine use in Wyoming students. The use of these substances changed dramatically based upon the political and social climate.

Wyoming tobacco sales to minors fell from a 55% buy rate in 1999 to less than a 10% buy rate in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 (CSAP, 2004).

Nationwide, these results are rare.

Wyoming State Statute 14-3-302 was amended in 2000 to allow for enforcement of the law prohibiting tobacco sales to minors under the authority of the Wyoming Department of Health.

The Synar Amendment (Section 1926 of the United States Public Health Act) requires enforcement of the state law prohibiting tobacco sales to minors.

States which do not attain a buy rate of less than 20% through these inspections may lose up to 40% of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) prevention and treatment block grant funds.

The Wyoming Department of Health, Substance Abuse Divisions comprehensive approach to enforce the Wyoming state statute has resulted in five years of positive of results including a drastic reduction in the tobacco sales to minors.

Cost analyses for the program showed less funds than anticipated are required to produce these exceptional results in the decrease of tobacco sales to minors.

Percentage Who Sold to Minors1994 Establishment of Wyoming Tobacco Prevention and Control Program: $63,000 annual CDC funds.1994 Formation of the Wyoming Tobacco Use Prevention Coalition (WyTUPC).1998 Master Settlement Agreement between states and major tobacco companies.1999 Excise tax of 20% of purchase price for smokeless tobacco; sales tax exemption removed from cigarettes.1999 Natrona County coalition works with city councilman to provide smoke-free restaurants in a 9-month battle.2000 Implementation of Reward and Reminder, a community-based retail education program.2000 Publication of A Strategic Blueprint for Tobacco Use Prevention in Wyoming.2000 Establishment of enforcement authority for WY Dept. of Health to hold vendors accountable in not selling tobacco to minors. (Rates remain at or below 10% for all years after)2000 and 2001 Legislature appropriates $900,000 per year for Tobacco Control from Wyoming Tobacco Settlement Trust Fund.2001 Wyoming Tobacco Control Program expanded to include cessation-focused and perinatal-specific programs.2002 and 2003 - $3 million settlement funds + $900,000 CDC funds appropriated for Tobacco Prevention and Control.2002 19 communities funded through Tobacco-free Wyoming Community grants.2003 Wyoming QuitLine begins service.2003 Wyoming Tobacco-free Schools of Excellence program begins.2003 Wyomings cigarette excise tax increases 60 cents per pack (up from 12 cents).Trend of Wyoming Tobacco Retailers Who Sold Tobacco to a Minor During Compliance ChecksData Source: SYNAR Compliance Studies

Wyoming State Statute 14-3-302 was amended in 2000 to allow for enforcement of the law prohibiting tobacco sales to minors under the authority of the Wyoming Department of Health.

The Synar Amendment (Section 1926 of the United States Public Health Act) requires enforcement of the state law prohibiting tobacco sales to minors.

States which do not attain a buy rate of less than 20% through these inspections may lose up to 40% of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) prevention and treatment block grant funds.

The Wyoming Department of Health, Substance Abuse Divisions comprehensive approach to enforce the Wyoming state statute has resulted in five years of positive of results including a drastic reduction in the tobacco sales to minors.

Cost analyses for the program showed less funds than anticipated are required to produce these exceptional results in the decrease of tobacco sales to minors.

The unprecedented result of the significant decrease in the tobacco buy rate of minors in Wyoming is an excellent example of the attainment of positive results through legislative decisions.

**of those who work indoors most of the timeData source: BRFSS

Chart1

48

54

53

62

64

71

Percent of Adults Working in Smoke Free Workplaces

Percentage of Adults Working in Smoke Free Workplaces in Wyoming is Increasing**

Sheet1

199848

199954

200053

200162

200264

200371

Sheet2

Sheet3

Beginning in the early 1970s, public health officials and community activists began to shape the science and advocacy movement towards protection from the known health hazard of exposure to secondhand smoke (Steenland, 1992).

Through changing public climate, scientific evidence about the health risk of exposure to second hand smoke, community action, and involvement of public health sectors and multiple organizations, the types and numbers of places that are smoke-free have increased to 10 states with smoke-free laws (ANRF, 2004)

A Smoke-free Wyoming media and public information campaign was launched by the Substance Abuse Division in the summer 2004.

76% of workers report smoke-free workplace policies (BRFSS, 2002)

Data source: Wyoming Dept. of Health - Wyoming Smokefree Restaurant Survey 2004

Chart1

48

54

53

62

64

71


Percentage of Adults Working in Smoke Free Workplaces is Increasing

Chart2

45

56

68

Percent of Smoke Free Restaurants

The Percentage of Smoke Free Restaurants in Wyoming is Increasing

Sheet1

Adults working in smoke free workplace, percent

199848

199954

200053

200162

200264

200371

2000: 45% 2002: 56% 2004: 68

Smoke free restaurants.

200045

200256

200468

Sheet2

Sheet3

In 2000, a comprehensive survey found less than half of restaurants surveyed were smoke-free (BRFSS, 2000).

Studies show that restaurant and bar workers suffer diseases from secondhand smoke exposure at rates significantly higher than the general population. (*45% in 2000, 56% in 2002, 68% in 2004 with 55.8% of full-service restaurants smoke-free).

A Smoke-free Wyoming media and public information campaign was launched by the Substance Abuse Division in the summer 2004. This included an informational campaign to help parents understand the importance of protecting children and infants from secondhand smoke

Chart1

48

54

53

62

64

71


Percentage of Adults Working in Smoke Free Workplaces is Increasing

Chart2

45

56

68

Percetn of Smoke Free Restaurants

The Percentage of 100% Smoke Free Restaurants is Increasing

Chart3

68.9

68.5

69.9

**Data from BRFSS respondents

Percent reporting no smoking within the home

Smoke Free Homes in Wyoming**

Sheet1

Adults working in smoke free workplace, percent

199848

199954

200053

200162

200264

200371

2000: 45% 2002: 56% 2004: 68

Smoke free restaurants.

200045

200256

200468

Percentage of BRFSS respondents who report that smoking is not allowed anywhere in the home

2001: 68.9% 2002: 68.5% 2003: 69.9%

200168.9

200268.5

200369.9

Sheet2

Sheet3

Juvenile Alcohol Law Violation Arrests

Data Source: Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Uniform Crime Reports.

Rates are per 10,000 juveniles ages 10 to 17.

Alcohol Law Violations include DUI, drunkeness and liquor law violations

Rate

Juvenile arrests for alcohol violations (drunkenness, DUI and liquor law violations) identifies the wide scope of the underage drinking problem in Wyoming.

Following a peak in 1998 and 1999, juvenile arrests decreased to approximately 250 arrests per 10,000 individuals ages 10 to 17.

Underage drinking is an additional reason that attaining alcohol compliance in Wyoming is necessary.

In 2001, underage drinking cost Wyoming citizens approximately $132 million (Levy et al. 2003).

Costs accounted for include medical care, work loss, and pain and suffering associated with underage alcohol use.

The concern over underage drinking is more than just legality.

Alcohol use by young individuals not only puts them at a greater risk for alcohol dependence and addiction, but also is particularly damaging as adolescent brains are not completely developed (NIAAA, 1997).

Students using alcohol are less likely to believe in the importance of achieving good grades in school and are five times more likely to drop out of school than students who do not use alcohol (NCADI, 1995).

Decreasing the availability of alcohol to minors is one way to curb their use of alcohol and protect them from health and social complications.

Increasing alcohol compliance within Wyoming is necessary for the well-being of Wyoming youth.

SMOKING HISTORY - MCH

38.5I have never smoked

1313.5

5.6I smoke from time to time

11.4I smoke now

1.813.4

Because of Pregnancy

Source: Wyoming Department of Health Maternal and Child Health

% of Pregnant Women

SMOKING HISTORY - PREGNANCY WELLNESS ASSESSMENT

DATA


199923.916

200023.814.3

200122.216

200223.716.8

200324.614.9

Heavy Drinking

MaleFemale

20016.63.8

20026.65.1

20036.76.4


200123.98.4

20022610.3

200326.110.5


19991296236

20001284301

20011507309

20021549359

20031482433


1999393107

2000344109

200142585

200234494

200334090


Opiates246

Cocaine297344

Methamph.346432374

Marijuana208221232

Hallucinagens13520

Other61612

DFC CasesRequiring PlacementNo PlacementTotal

Meth Cases36238

Non-Meth Cases402767

Meth CasesNon-Meth CasesTotal

Required Placement935972

No Placement74128

Male Smokeless by age

MaleFemale

Smokefree Workplaces

199848

199954

200053

200162

200264

200371

Smokefree restaurants

200045

200256

200468

No Smoking in Homes

200168.9

200268.5

200369.9

MCH DATA

Smoking history

Because of Pregnancy

I have never smoked38.5

I have quit smoking1313.5

I smoke from time to time5.6

I smoke now11.4

I have decreased the amount I smoke1.813.4

TOBACCO

23.916

23.814.3

22.216

23.716.8

24.614.9

Current Smokers




Binge Drinking

23.98.4

2610.3

26.110.5

Male

Female

% Binge Drinkers

BINGE DRINKING, WYOMING - BRFSS DATA

Heavy Drinking

6.63.8

6.65.1

6.76.4

Male

Female

% Heavy Drinkers

HEAVY DRINKING, WYOMING - BRFSS DATA


1296236

1284301

1507309

1549359

1482433

Male

Female

Number of Arrests



393107

344109

42585

34494

34090

Male

Female

Number of Arrests


ARRESTS BY DRUG

246

297344

346432374

208221232

13520

61612

2001

2002

2003

Number of Total Arrests


DFS CASES

937

5941

7228

Required Placement

No Placement

% Cases Requiring Placement

METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVEMENT IN DFS CASES

DFS PIE #1

93

7

Meth Cases

METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVED CASES

DFS PIE #2

59

41

NON-METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVED CASES

SMOKEFREE WORK

48

54

53

62

64

71

% Working in Smokefree Workplaces

PERCENTAGE OF ADULTS WHO WORKE IN SMOKEFREE WORKPLACES IN WYOMINGBEHAVIORAL RISK FACTOR SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM - 2003

SMOKEFREE RESTAURANTS

45

56

68

% SMOKEFREE RESTAURANTS

PERCENTAGE OF 100% SMOKEFREE RESTAURANTS IN WYOMING

NO SMOKING IN HOME

68.9

68.5

69.9

% Homes where smoking not allowed

PERCENTAGE OF HOMES WHERE SMOKING NOT ALLOWED

During the Pregnancy Wellness Assessment, 26.5% of women reported that they had quit smoking and 13.5% of these women had quit because of their pregnancy.

15.2% reported that they decreased the amount they smoked and 13.4% of these women had decreased their smoking because of their pregnancy.

38.5% of pregnant women reported that they had never smoked.

The percentages of pregnant women who were not smoking or had quit because of their pregnancy are encouraging, however, the Pregnancy Wellness Assessment also reported that 17% of pregnant women in Wyoming continue to smoke regularly or from time to time during their pregnancies.

We have clearly made significant progress in nicotine use during pregnancy, but we must also continue to address this issue within the state of Wyoming.

82.6% in Self-Reported Alcohol Use During Pregnancy

Source: Wyoming Department of Health Maternal and Child Health, 2001

According to the Pregnancy Wellness Assessment, targeting only pregnant women and incorporated into MCHs Best Beginnings program, 74% of pregnant women reported that they did not use alcohol. 20% of the pregnant women, however, reported being alcohol drinkers (N = 932).

Source: Wyoming Department of Health Maternal and Child Health

In Wyoming, self-reported alcohol use during pregnancy (MCH, 2001) showed an 82.6% decrease from 1989 to 2001 (8.6% to 1.5%). This distinct decrease in alcohol use during pregnancy is very encouraging.

While we know that the use of alcohol has been found to be under-reported on birth certificates, the 82.6% decrease still represents a very significant reduction in alcohol use during pregnancy.

Low Birth Weight BabiesLow and very low birth weight rates in Wyoming are above the national average, but have remained relatively stable between 1999 and 2002.

The trend of very low birth weights in Wyoming has remained relatively stable between 1999 and 2002 at 1.1%.

In 2002, the low birth weight rate for Wyoming was 8.4% compared to 7.8% nationally.

These low and very low birth rates seem small; however, they have serious repercussions for the well being of Wyoming families as well as high costs for special medical and educational attention.

The costs represented by even a low percentage of infants born at low and very low birth weights are exorbitant.

Thirty-five percent of health care costs for all infants in the first year of life are spent on the 7.8% of babies that are born at low birth weight and the 1.4% of babies that are born at very low birth weight (Lewitt et al., 1995).

Low birth-weight babies [defined as a weight of less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces (2,500 grams)] are more likely than babies of normal birth weight to require specialized treatment in a neonatal intensive care unit. Babies born at very low birth weights [defined as a weight of less than 3 pounds, 5 ounces (1,500 grams)] have even greater risks of acute and chronic health complications and death.

Wyoming Newborn Mortality Rates Have Decreased

1999200020012002Infant mortality* 6.66.96.56.4Neonatal mortality*3.84.34.24.1Post-neonatal mortality*2.72.52.32.3Perinatal mortality*7.68.39.59.8**Rate per 1000 live births. Source: Maternal and Child Health

Infant, neonatal, and post-neonatal mortality rates, which all may be related to drug use during pregnancy, have decreased from 1999 to 2002 (MCH, 2002).

The decrease in these mortality rates may be a direct result of several statewide, anti-smoking efforts that were mounted from 1997 through 2003 (section 2). These efforts have had a significant affect on the decline of tobacco use among Wyoming high-school students.

The positive outcome of these efforts provides a strong case that large-scale, multi-year initiatives have a positive affect on the cessation of substance abuse.

The decrease in both alcohol and nicotine use between the years 2000 and 2002 may be reflected in the concurrent decline of newborn mortality rates. These reductions may be ripple affects of Wyomings large-scale efforts against substance abuse.

To ensure that the trend of decreased infant mortality continues, the efforts to reduce substance abuse must continue. Such a continuation will be reflected in the decrease of costs related to low and very low birth weight babies.

93% of methamphetamine involved cases resulted in placement of children.

Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services Methamphetamine Involvement in Child Welfare

Chart10

93

7

Meth Cases

METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVED PLACEMENTS

DATA


199923.916

200023.814.3

200122.216

200223.716.8

200324.614.9

Heavy Drinking

MaleFemale

20016.63.8

20026.65.1

20036.76.4


200123.98.4

20022610.3

200326.110.5


19991296236

20001284301

20011507309

20021549359

20031482433


1999393107

2000344109

200142585

200234494

200334090


Opiates246

Cocaine297344

Methamph.346432374

Marijuana208221232

Hallucinagens13520

Other61612


Meth Cases36238




No Placement74128

TOBACCO

23.916

23.814.3

22.216

23.716.8

24.614.9

Current Smokers




Binge Drinking

23.98.4

2610.3

26.110.5

Male

Female

% Binge Drinkers


Heavy Drinking

6.63.8

6.65.1

6.76.4

Male

Female

% Heavy Drinkers



1296236

1284301

1507309

1549359

1482433

Male

Female

Number of Arrests



393107

344109

42585

34494

34090

Male

Female

Number of Arrests


ARRESTS BY DRUG

246

297344

346432374

208221232

13520

61612

2001

2002

2003



DFS CASES

937

5941

7228

Required Placement

No Placement



Chart11

59

41

NON-METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVED PLACEMENTS

DATA


199923.916

200023.814.3

200122.216

200223.716.8

200324.614.9

Heavy Drinking

MaleFemale

20016.63.8

20026.65.1

20036.76.4


200123.98.4

20022610.3

200326.110.5


19991296236

20001284301

20011507309

20021549359

20031482433


1999393107

2000344109

200142585

200234494

200334090


Opiates246

Cocaine297344

Methamph.346432374

Marijuana208221232

Hallucinagens13520

Other61612


Meth Cases36238




No Placement74128

TOBACCO

23.916

23.814.3

22.216

23.716.8

24.614.9

Current Smokers




Binge Drinking

23.98.4

2610.3

26.110.5

Male

Female

% Binge Drinkers


Heavy Drinking

6.63.8

6.65.1

6.76.4

Male

Female

% Heavy Drinkers



1296236

1284301

1507309

1549359

1482433

Male

Female

Number of Arrests



393107

344109

42585

34494

34090

Male

Female

Number of Arrests


ARRESTS BY DRUG

246

297344

346432374

208221232

13520

61612

2001

2002

2003



DFS CASES

937

5941

7228

Required Placement

No Placement



DFS PIE #1

93

7

Meth Cases

METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVED CASES

The detrimental affect of substance abuse on the well-being of children is clearly obvious when drug-involved child welfare cases are considered.

Although data is not yet available for the involvement of nicotine and alcohol in child welfare cases, the Department of Family Services (DFS, 2004 unpublished internal survey) has provided a report on the involvement of methamphetamine in child welfare cases.

This report was based upon a random sample of 120 open DFS cases (drawn from 540 available cases). DFS case managers responded regarding the nature of 105 different cases.

Data was collected regarding whether the children in the case were in placement, or had been during the incident, and whether methamphetamine use was suspected or confirmed to be involved in the case.

Approximately 36.2% of the 105 child welfare cases had some type of methamphetamine involvement contributing to the allegation and 93% of the confirmed or suspected meth cases involved children that experienced placement

Chart9

937

5941

7228

Required Placement

No Placement


METHAMPHETAMINE INVOLVEMENT IN PLACEMENT

DATA


199923.916

200023.814.3

200122.216

200223.716.8

200324.614.9

Heavy Drinking

MaleFemale

20016.63.8

20026.65.1

20036.76.4


200123.98.4

20022610.3

200326.110.5


19991296236

20001284301

20011507309

20021549359

20031482433


1999393107

2000344109

200142585

200234494

200334090


Opiates246

Cocaine297344

Methamph.346432374

Marijuana208221232

Hallucinagens13520

Other61612


Meth Cases36238


Meth CasesNon-Meth CasesBoth


No Placement74128

TOBACCO

23.916

23.814.3

22.216

23.716.8

24.614.9

Current Smokers




Binge Drinking

23.98.4

2610.3

26.110.5

Male

Female

% Binge Drinkers


Heavy Drinking

6.63.8

6.65.1

6.76.4

Male

Female

% Heavy Drinkers



1296236

1284301

1507309

1549359

1482433

Male

Female

Number of Arrests



393107

344109

42585

34494

34090

Male

Female

Number of Arrests


Arrests by Drug

246

297344

346432374

208221232

13520

61612

2001

2002

2003



In this study, nearly 100% of the cases where methamphetamine was involved resulted in placement of the children.

Not only are these children often the recipient of abuse and neglect in the methamphetamine situations, the cost to the state for placement of each child is $400 per month per child.

For example, one DFS office reported that 51 families were being served where methamphetamines were suspected or confirmed to be the contributing factor of abuse/neglect of the children. These 51 families had a total of 106 children. Of these children, 89 were placed in foster care. If each child in foster care costs the state $4,800 per year, then the foster care costs attributed to methamphetamine abuse would total $427,200.00 per year for one county alone.

Costs of foster care associated with Methamphetamine use

Abuse/neglect associated with meth useChildren placed in foster careCost/child/yearCosts of foster care attributed to methamphetamine abuse/year for one county.51 families(106 children)89$4800.00$427,200.00

The cost to the state for placement of each child is $400 per month per child, or $4800 per year.

For example, one DFS office reported that 51 families were being served where methamphetamines were suspected or confirmed to be the contributing factor of abuse/neglect of the children. (Natrona County, WY).These 51 families had a total of 106 children.

Of these children, 89 were placed in foster care. If each child in foster care costs the state $4,800 per year, then the foster care costs attributed to methamphetamine abuse would total $427,200.00 per year for one county alone.

Wyoming Drug Courts and Treatment Mothers with Drug-Free BabiesSince the inception of the drug court systems, Wyoming has had 19 drug-free babies born to participants as of July 2004.

In just the past 12 months, 9 drug free babies have been born to drug court participants

In fiscal year 2004, seventeen drug courts (10 adult courts, 7 juvenile courts) received funding from the Wyoming Substance Abuse Division. In addition, there were four drug courts within Wyoming that did not receive Substance Abuse Division funding. The drug courts were charged with providing supervision and treatment programs for drug-using offenders. Drug courts have become a vital part of substance abuse programs in Wyoming as 80% of incarcerations in Wyoming involve substance abuse. Drug court systems include frequent drug testing; judicial and probation supervision; individual, group and family counseling; drug abuse treatment; educational opportunities and employment requirements. The philosophy of the drug court system holds that structured requirements and accountability, combined with the resources of family, friends, community and treatment, can enable a client to live free of substance abuse.

Several male participants have become fathers of drug-free babies while in drug court programs.

A percentage of drug-free babies cannot currently be established, as courts are not tracking the total number of pregnancies of their clients.

However, the fact that babies are being born drug-free through drug-court programs is positive. If the clients had not been within the drug-court systems, their babies would be at a much greater risk of complications due to substance abuse.

The wide ranging effects of substance abuse by pregnant mothers are severe.

Wyoming has seen a decrease in alcohol and nicotine use between 2000 and 2002, which may be reflected in the concurrent decline of newborn mortality rates.

Wyomings efforts to continue to decrease substance abuse, however, must not stop. Drug involved welfare cases, including child placements due to meth involvement, are all too common in Wyoming. To continue to alleviate substance abuse, it is imperative that state officials and community members make forward-thinking decisions, such as increasing drug court and treatment capacity to directly reduce drug use.

5. Substance Abuse Treatment and Cost vs. Alternatives

More than eighteen (18) million Americans who use alcohol and nearly five (5) million who use drugs need treatment.

The capacity of substance abuse treatment programs in Wyoming cannot keep up with the demand as less than one-fourth of people access treatment who are in need.

Ability to access substance abuse treatment has several barriers including lack of available space, limited funding, or denial regarding the problem on the part of the drug user.

Treatment OptionsOutpatientIntensive OutpatientResidentialTherapeutic Community

Treatment for substance abuse is a crucial element of our social infrastructure, and it may be provided in a variety of settings and different types of interventions.

The four most effective types of drug treatment programs include outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential and therapeutic community which incorporate cognitive-behavioral interventions.

OUTPATIENT: Structured outpatient treatment program may include detoxification and rehabilitation services. In 1997, the majority of clients of substance abuse treatment programs (87%) were treated in outpatient settings. Individualized treatment may be met through individual therapy, yet many acute and chronic dependent individuals are more effectively treated through more intensive services (intensive outpatient).

INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT: These intensive services according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine Patient Placement Criteria (ASAM) are known in the treatment field as intensive outpatient programs (IOP).Intensive outpatient programs are primarily designed for clients to participate in therapeutic groups and community self-help meetings (twelve-step groups, e.g., AA, NA etc). The combination of therapy groups, individual counseling, family therapy and recovery community activities promotes long term recovery through educating the chemically dependent about addiction and equipping the client and family with the necessary recovery tools.

RESIDENTIAL & THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITIESPlacing clients in the most appropriate and effective level of treatment is the goal to success. While a great number of recovery individuals can be successful with outpatient services where they can maintain employment and family life, it is sometimes important to remove the individual from his or her environment temporarily to achieve successful recovery. Removing the individual from their environment may be done for several reasons, including but not limited to, the individual's physical health, unstable living environment etc. Both Residential treatment and therapeutic communities achieve these goals.

RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT: removes the patient from their surroundings and places them in a twenty-four (24) hour living facility.Depending on the primary drug of choice, the client may experience withdrawal symptoms for a number of months when first abstinent. For this purpose, it becomes important to determine treatment needs on an individual basis rather than establishing a set number of days to stay in the residential facility.

THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITIES: Longer duration of treatment may be necessary if the primary drug of choice and/or the level of involvement within the drug sub-culture is severe. Up to 24 months in a highly specialized residential setting (Therapeutic Community) may be necessary. A therapeutic community utilizes stages or phases of treatment that vary in intensity. Moving through these phases encourages the client to increase personal and social responsibility. Therapeutic communities are unique in the fact that they rely on peer influence, including mentoring, which provides a sense of accountability and responsibility for the clients. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2004).

Does Treatment Work?National studies and Wyoming-specific statistics conclude that drug treatment definitely works and is more cost effective than the alternatives.

(Hubbard et al., 1997; McLellan, 1997; US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 1997).

There is no "cookie-cutter" treatment approach for each individual and relapse may occur.

The significant cost benefits of drug treatment include reduced crime, increased productivity, and lower health care utilization.

The effectiveness of substance abuse treatment is important to consider, as it both considers the welfare of individual clients and positive benefits to communities.

Examining the statistics regarding the number of clients served by treatment programs including admission, retention and discharge, provides meaningful information on the effectiveness of treatment.

It is estimated that for every dollar spent on treatment, society saves seven dollars in reducing the need for medical attention, incarceration, environment hazards, and out of home placements of children.

There is evidence that treatment indeed does work.

Treatment Service Expansion

Fiscal YearServices2001-20022002-20032003-2004Intensive Outpatient102123WomenAdolescentsAdult2 2 62 5 142 6 15Residential111 Beds131 Beds159 BedsWomenAdolescentAdult 1 (8 beds) 1 (8 beds) 4 (95 beds)2 (28 beds)1 (8 beds)4 (95 beds)4 (48 beds)1 (8 beds)4 (103 beds)Drug Courts101417Adult679Juvenile478Source: Wyoming DOH Substance Abuse Division, Substance Abuse Indicators, 2004

Note: # of clients served and capacity expansion reflect increased funding to publicly funded agencies and not private providers

Between Wyoming state fiscal years (FY) 2000 to 2004, the number of clients treated for substance abuse/dependence increased from 6,000 in FY00 to 9,870 in FY04.

The increase in treatment capacity was largely due to the legislatures passage of the Substance Abuse Control Plan (HB59) in 2002. The passage of this bill allowed for increases of outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential treatment services, and drug court programs. Wyoming has also seen an increased implementation of evidence-based treatment practices and a move toward individualized treatment to meet both the treatment demands and increase effectiveness.

Southwest Counseling Service in Sweetwater County increased the number of clients served by 45% from FY00 to FY04..

Source: Wyoming Department of Health Substance Abuse Division

The total number of admissions to substance abuse treatment programs has gradually increased during Wyoming state fiscal years 2001-2004.

Theincreasing trend may be due to both an increased need for substance abuse treatment and the increased treatment capacity since implementing the Substance Abuse Control Plan (HB59).

Admissions to Substance Abuse Treatment Programs Has IncreasedFY01FY02FY03FY04Alcohol2760289932413315Stimulants211271335305Marijuana8289131000959Methamphetamine (1 drug problem)374409597806Methamphetamine (1,2 and 3 drug problem)72881510651328

The majority of admissions to substance abuse treatment in Wyoming have been for alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine, and stimulants respectively.

Overall, admissions for all of these substances have increased within FY01 to FY04.

Chart1

3921

4223

4697

6915

Total Admissions

Total Admissions to Substance Abuse Treatment Programs

Chart2

3315

2134

959

305

136

40

12

8

4

2

**Methamphetmine figures include admissions for primary diagnosis and primary, secondary and tertiary diagnosis combined.

Admissions to treatment

Admissions to Treatment by Drug TypeFY04

Chart3

374728

409815

5971065

8061328

Methamphetamine (1 drug problem)

Methamphetamine (1,2 and 3 drug problem)

Fiscal Year

Admissions to Treatment

Admissions for Methamphetamine Abuse Treatment are Rising

Chart4

2760828211

2899913271

32411000335

3315959305

Alcohol

Marijuana

Stimulants

Source: Wyoming Department of Health Substance Abuse Division and WSIC

Admissions to treatment

Admissions for Treatment for Alcohol, Marijuana and Stimulants Addictions

Sheet1

Admissions and Completed Discharges by Drug Group* (excluding evaluation clients)

FY01FY02FY03FY04

Drug Group 1- opiates

Admissions627383136

Discharges that Completed Treatment*13171527

Drug Group 2- alcohol

Admissions2760289932413315


Drug Group 3- barbituates/ sedative hypnotics

Admissions17141412


Drug Group 4- stimulants

Admissions211271335305


Drug Group 6- tranquilizers, etc.

Admissions7934


Drug Group 7- designer drugs

Admissions0302


Drug Group 8- marijuana



Drug Group 9- inhalants/other

Admissions24261440


Drug Group 10- hallucinogens

Admissions121578


Drug Group 5- methamphetamine (primary drug problem)



Drug Group 5- methamphetamine (primary, secondary, & tertiary drug problem)



* Duplicated Clients

* DiscontinueStatus=1 Discharged: Treatment Completed

Prepared by COI 12/13/04

ADMISSIONS

FY01FY02FY03FY04

Alcohol2760289932413315

Methamphetamine **2134

Marijuana82

substance abuse in wyoming 2005

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