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Debra L. Cooper, Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa Department of Public Health, 321 East 12th Street, Lucas State Office Building, Des Moines, IA 50319-0075, 515-242-6337, dcooper@idph.state.ia.us
Methamphetamine, a powerfully addictive stimulant, can be easily produced in illicit, makeshift labs. Aside from the inherent physical and physiological dangers of the drug itself, many of the substances used in the manufacturing process are hazardous and can lead to acute human exposures via volatile air emissions, spills, fires, and explosions. The Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance (HSEES) database, maintained by the Agency For Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), provides the opportunity to collect data on merging environmental health threats, such as meth labs, and to take appropriate preventative actions. Interest in these events by ATSDR was sparked from the markedly high number of injuries associated with these labs. Because these labs are often found in homes and apartment buildings, additional concern was raised for the safety of children who reside in these settings. An overview of the meth problem in Iowa will be presented. The meth epidemic continues to increase in Iowa. Along with the dangers of the drug itself, come the dangers of manufacturing. Children, police officers, firefighters, and the general public become victims of exposure to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Effective prevention strategies have been implemented but more must be done to fight the growing popularity of this destructive drug.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to
Keywords: Data/Surveillance, Injury Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.