Macomb Makes a Difference in Drug Diversion

MACOMB “TAKE BACK”

What: Last DEA driven Take-Back was a Great Success!

Where: Macomb County Anti-Drug Coalitions in conjunction with local Law Enforcement Departments have held DEA Drug Take Back days twice a year since 2011. The last of these planned events happened on Saturday, September 27, 2014 County wide, where 1342 pounds of old medications were collected at eleven Macomb County sites. The DEA has been successful in their efforts but now they are asking communities to take up this charge on their own. Almost 4 tons (7145 pounds) have been collected in Macomb since this project began.

Why: When youth and young adults have access and their perception of risk/harm is low they are more likely to use drugs. Therefore as a method to combat this growing problem, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) created this initiative. This national campaign removed these medications from circulation and dramatically reduces the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse, while increasing awareness of this public health issue.

Facts:

· One in seven teens in the USA report having abused prescription drugs to “get high”.

· More than 60% of teens say prescription drugs are easy to get from the home medicine cabinet, the homes of relatives or from friends.

· Improperly disposed medications are being found in the waterways and landfills across the country, making this a health concern for everyone.

Get Involved: Although the DEA will not continue to initiate these events this is not the end of the line! Individuals are encouraged to join a local anti-drug coalition and help their community stay healthy. For a list of Macomb coalitions visit: www.mcosa.net/Macomb_Coalition_List.asp

Year Round Collection sites in Macomb County: Twelve police department have permanent drop box locations that are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 every day of the year. Visit MCOSA.net for site listings. www.mcosa.net/MPN/Take%20Back/V4%20Permanent%20Prescription%20Disposal%20Sites%20Post%20Card.pdf

Contact: for more information on this event call Dawn Radzioch, Prevention Coordinator Macomb County Community Mental Health- Office of Substance Abuse and Chair of the Macomb Prevention Network at (586) 469-5278.