A Canadian Community Epidemiology Network
on Drug Use (CCENDU) Report
Regina and Area
2004 Report
June 2006
Prepared by: Addictions Services
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWARD................................................................................. 3
REPORT PREPARATION .............................................................. 4
ABOUT THE REGINA QU’APPELLE HEALTH REGION (RQHR)........ 5
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS.................................................................. 7
SOURCES .................................................................................... 7
LIMITATIONS OF THE REPORT ................................................... 9
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .............................................................. 11
PREVALENCE ............................................................................ 16
A L C O H O L .................................................................................... 16
C A N N A B I S ................................................................................. 17
C O C A I N E .................................................................................... 17
H E R O I N , M O R P H I N E A N D O T H E R N A R C O T I C S ............ 17
M E T H A M P H E T A M I N E ............................................................... 17
MORBIDITY .............................................................................. 18
A L C O H O L .................................................................................... 18
C A N N A B I S ................................................................................. 18
C O C A I N E .................................................................................... 18
H E R O I N , M O R P H I N E A N D O T H E R N A R C O T I C S ............ 18
O T H E R D R U G S ......................................................................... 18
MORTALITY .............................................................................. 20
A L C O H O L .................................................................................... 20
C A N N A B I S ............................................................................... 21
C O C A I N E .................................................................................. 21
H E R O I N , M O R P H I N E A N D O T H E R N A R C O T I C S ............ 21
O T H E R D R U G S ....................................................................... 21
ENFORCEMENT ......................................................................... 25
A L C O H O L .................................................................................. 25
C A N N A B I S ............................................................................... 27
C O C A I N E .................................................................................. 28
H E R O I N , M O R P H I N E A N D O T H E R N A R C O T I C S ............ 30
TREATMENT .............................................................................. 33
A L C O H O L .................................................................................. 33
C A N N A B I S ............................................................................... 33
C O C A I N E .................................................................................. 33
H E R O I N , M O R P H I N E A N D O T H E R N A R C O T I C S ............ 34
O T H E R D R U G S ....................................................................... 34
YOUTH ...................................................................................... 38
INJECTION DRUG USE .............................................................. 40
HIV/AIDS AND HEPATITIS C .................................................... 44
NEEDLE EXCHANGE................................................................... 46
THE REGINA AND AREA DRUG STRATEGY ................................. 47
APPENDIX A ............................................................................. 50
GLOSSARY OF TERMS ............................................................... 52
FOREWARD
The Canadian Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (CCENDU)
http://www.ccsa.ca/ccendu is guided by a steering committee that
ensures collaboration between federal, provincial and community
agencies is maintained. Intersecting interests in drug use, such as
health and legal consequences of use, treatment, and law enforcement,
bind these agencies together in an effort to provide an early warning
system that aids in the identification of potentially dangerous drug
trends as well as improved methods of response.
There are currently twelve CCENDU sites, with additional sites under
development. Each local site collects, collates, and interprets data and
information in eight major drug use areas:

Alcohol
Cocaine
Cannabis
Heroin
Sedative-hypnotics and tranquillizers
Hallucinogens other than cannabis
Stimulants other than cocaine
Inhalants
As well, six indicator areas are used to gather data to produce local
reports:

Prevalence of drug use
Law enforcement
Treatment
Morbidity
Mortality
HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C (includes injection drug use and
needle exchange information)
REPORT PREPARATION
Depending on the availability of resources, a final report is developed
for each year by all of the twelve CCENDU sites. The 2004 report for
the Regina site was developed and organized by various team members
from the area. Regular meetings were conducted throughout the year
to ensure the reports creation and successful dissemination.
The Regina site team includes:
Co-ordinator:
Mr. Brian Danyliw, Program Manager
Addiction Services, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
Dr. Zahid Abbas
Epidemiologist
Population and Public Health Services
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
Ms. Kathy Lloyd, Supervisor
Population and Public Health
Services, Communicable Disease
Control
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
Mr. John McCallum, Program
Consultant
Community Care Branch,
Saskatchewan Health
S/Sergeant Rick Bourassa,
Planning and Research Analyst
Regina Police Service
Mr. Kent Silzer, Information Consultant
Mental Health & Addiction Services,
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
Sergeant Dave Henry,
Combined Forces
Special Enforcement Unit
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Mr. Ron Thurlow, Addiction Counsellor
Addiction Services
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
ABOUT THE REGINA QU’APPELLE HEALTH
REGION (RQHR)
The Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region encompasses an area of 26,663
square kilometres, and has a population of approximately 246,478. The
City of Regina is the largest populated centre with 187,772
(Saskatchewan Health, Covered population, 2005) persons.
25% of the population live in rural communities or in one of the 17 First
Nations Communities within the health region. In 2005, 13.4% of the
population was over the age of 65. The growing Registered Indian
population made up approximately 9% of the total population. The
population in the RQHR is expected to remain relatively stable over the
next 15 years.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Throughout the year, many individuals work diligently to compile the
information needed to complete the CCENDU report for Regina and
area. The Regina CCENDU committee would sincerely like to thank all
the individuals and organizations that contributed information to be
used in the 2004 Regina report. A very special "thank you" to Ron
Thurlow, for all of his efforts in the development of our report.
SOURCES
AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, Addiction Services
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, Harm Reduction
Methadone Clinic
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, Health Information
Management Services
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, Population and Public
Health Services, Communicable Disease Control
Regina Police Service
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Saskatchewan Government Insurance
Saskatchewan Health, Corporate Information
and Technology Branch
Saskatchewan Justice, Coroners Branch
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
The Parliament Methadone Clinic
The Regina Health District Injection Drug Use Strategy Report
The Regina and Area Drug Strategy Report
LIMITATIONS OF THE REPORT
1. This report has attempted to collect data on the prevalence of alcohol
and drug usage and the incidence of alcohol and drug related health and
social problems in the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR). In a
number of instances, however, information has only been available for
the area within City of Regina boundaries. Therefore, caution needs to
be used when trying to compare information from these differing
sources. Due to population differences, results should not be
generalized.
2. There are differences in the time periods for data provided by the
various agencies. Some data represents the calendar year; other data
is reported on a fiscal year (ending March 31) basis. Some of the data
reported is current (2004/05) while other information reported relates
to earlier years. As such, caution should be taken when interpreting the
presented data due to time period fluctuations. Data is presented in
absolute numbers and is not expressed as rates.
3. Addiction Services (ADS) treatment information is taken from the
Saskatchewan Health Management Information System database. It
reports individual admissions to treatment service, not individual clients.
The number of discrete individuals is not recorded. As well, treatment
data often represents the availability of treatment services rather than
the true incidence or prevalence of disease.
4. The Coroners Branch, Saskatchewan Justice keeps a record of alcohol
and drug related deaths that are investigated through its office;
however the full extent to which alcohol and drug use is implicated in
deaths is not known. Drug related deaths are likely underestimated.
5. Enforcement data may be influenced by factors other than the
incidence of alcohol and drug related crime. Reports from the
Integrated Drug Unit, which is a co-operative effort of the Regina Police
Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police may include a
duplication of some statistical data.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Canadian Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (CCENDU)
reports help to provide a snapshot of drug and alcohol use nation wide.
As in many centers located across Canada, Regina and the surrounding
communities that comprise the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR)
are challenged by addictions. The CCENDU report developed for Regina
and area assists health practitioners, law enforcement and various
community agencies in the identification of emerging trends in drug and
alcohol use. Difficulties and consequences related to addiction affect
both the individual and the community. Often, serious health, social
and economic consequences affect people dealing with addiction.
Moreover, those consequences have the potential to compromise the
lives of those around them including the family and the community.
In 2004, alcohol continues to be the chemical of choice for many
users located within the RQHR. However, alcohol-involved collisions,
including personal injury, property damage and fatalities remained
relatively steady in the RQHR, and did not significantly increase.
Saskatchewan has traditionally suffered higher per capita rates of
impaired driving than many other comparable jurisdictions in Canada.
In 2004, 817 clients were referred for assessment under the
Safe Driving legislation for offences related primarily to drinking
and driving, a decrease of 22 percent from 2003.
2004/2005 indicated substantial alcohol related problems
amongst individuals that reside within the RQHR. A total of 4680
treatment episodes were recorded by Addictions Services, RQHR for
alcohol dependency, which is a slight increase from 2003/2004
statistics. Of these clients, 72% identified that their use of alcoholic
beverages was causing a problem. Moreover, 2100 alcohol related
diagnosis from hospital separations (in-patient and emergency room
data) were recorded for the 2004/2005 year. This number is consistent
with 2003/2004 data, increasing only by 76 diagnoses in the RQHR. As
in years past, alcohol continues to be a primary choice for Regina’s
youth. Addiction Service counsellors in Regina maintain that alcohol
continues to be the number one chemical of choice among youth
in our city.
Illicit drugs are common amongst Regina and area citizens. In
2004, cocaine related diagnoses rose for a third year, increasing
40%. In fact, morbidity data also indicated moderate increases in
diagnoses for cannabis, morphine and other narcotics, and other drugs.
Cocaine violations increased slightly in 2004. However, the 10%
increase seems relatively minor to the 142% increase noted in 2003. It
should be noted, however, that because these violations had recorded
very small numbers in previous years, the large increase in percent did
not indicate significant alarm.
Recorded violations under the Controlled Drug and Substances Act
showed a 12% decrease in total reported cannabis violations in
2004.
Heroin, morphine and other narcotics violations did display an
increase of 63 % in the number of total violations recorded in
2004. These violations were mainly pertaining to narcotics other than
heroin, which in Regina would be morphine, Demerol or Ritalin.
Violations for heroin possession and trafficking remained steady, with
only one (1) violation noted.
An eight-year trend analysis of all illicit drug violations within the city of
Regina indicates that cannabis infractions continue to be more prevalent
than other drug offences. This trend is consistent with data collected in
2003.
Statistics gathered from individuals receiving treatment from the
RQHR’s Addiction Services agencies recorded 2563 treatment
episodes wherein clients identified with using cannabis. This is
an increase of approximately 12% over 2003.
Increases were also
noted for clients identifying the use of cocaine and narcotics. Selfreport data collected by Addiction Services for 2004/2005 showed an
increase of 40% for cocaine use. Narcotics use increased by only 8% in
the same time period. Alcohol and marijuana continue to be the most
commonly used chemicals, however cocaine is usage has continued to
increase, with no apparent levelling in usage.
Despite an influx of crystal methamphetamine use (commonly referred
to as “crystal meth”), in other parts of Saskatchewan, in the RQHR
alcohol continues to be the number one choice by youth, followed
by marijuana at a close second. Addiction counsellors are seeing some
methamphetamine use but it remained relatively small in 2004/05.
However, with a client base of 30 or more youth receiving
treatment for crystal meth use, counsellors are showing
concern. As such, there has been a significant increase in requests for
public information on crystal meth by both the community and the
education system. According to Addiction counsellors, cocaine use
amongst youth is becoming more apparent and is being “tried” by
more youth.
The prevalence of injection drug use has also remained consistent in
the RQHR. Unlike previous years where morphine/Demerol, Talwin and
Ritalin (T’s and R’s) topped the list of the most commonly injected
drugs, 2004/2005 statistics identified cocaine as the most
injected drug, followed by morphine/Demerol and finally Talwin &
Ritalin. The decline in the use of T’s and R’s remains consistent in the
last two years, going from the most injected drug in 2002/2003, to the
third most injected drug. More significantly, although IV drug use by
both male and female clients aged 19 years and older has increase by
approximately 17% in 2004, IV drug use by females 18 and under
increased by 79% in the same period.
The number of clients accessing Methadone services in the RQHR rose
nearly 10% in 2004/2005. However, it should be noted that a small
number of these clients were prescribed methadone for pain relief
purposes only.
HIV/AIDS has continued to be present within the RQHR. Although the
annual number of newly diagnosed cases has been small over the past
five years, there has been consistent growth in the number of
individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. In 2004, 15 newly diagnosed
cases of HIV were recorded. This number is up 25% when compared
to the 12 newly diagnosed cases recorded in previous year. HIV
transmission and risk is primarily prevalent across Canada through both
injection drug use and sex trade work. A total of 60 hospital
separations for people with HIV/AIDS were recorded within the region in
2003/2004. This total represents a decrease in both inpatient and
emergency room admissions. These numbers do not confirm the
number of different individuals who received care, or in which health
region they resided in. The Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region is only one
of the two health regions in Saskatchewan that offer infectious disease
medical specialist services, and as such, persons residing out of the
region may have made some of the visits.
In 2004, 211 individuals were diagnosed with Hepatitis C. This
number is up slightly, representing a 10% increase since 2003.
Initiatives are in place in Regina to help decrease the risk of blood borne
and sexually transmitted diseases in persons who participate in ‘at risk’
behaviours. The program, known as “The Street Project”, exchanges
clean needles, sharps containers, and provides other related supplies.
In 2004/2005, the RQHR recorded a total of 1,656,382 needles
exchanged through the program.
In 2004, the Regina and Area Drug Strategy continued to make
progress in planning addiction treatment services for the RQHR. The
Steering Committee and seven working groups held meetings regularly
and started to develop work plans and identify priorities. These
included plans for a Brief Detox and Homelessness Shelter, a Youth
Stabilization Program and a Drug Treatment Court. As well,
consultants were hired to develop an evaluation process to ensure
progress within the mandate of the Drug Strategy.
PREVALENCE
ALCOHOL
In 2003/2004 annual report compiled by the Saskatchewan Liquor and
Gaming Authority (SLGA) indicated a total revenue of $66,137,000.00
generated from sales of liquor from outlets in the Regina Qu’Appelle
Health Region. Additional data collected by SLGA notes an increase of
approximately 5% in the volume of sales of absolute alcohol in the
2004/2005 year when compared to 2003/2004 sales. Sales of wines and
coolers, and spirits showed significant increases in sales in 2004/2005.
Sales of beer decreased by nearly 10% in fiscal 2004.
The table below shows a 5-year history of the volume of alcohol sales in
Saskatchewan.
(000’s of litres)
Year
Spirits
Wines and
Coolers
Beer
Absolute
Alcohol
2000
5,387
5,303
59,019
5,530
2001
5,383
5,841
61,060
5,649
2002
5,229
6,089
60,234
5,496
2003
5,330
6,346
62,615
5,302
58,729
5,544
2004
5,630
6,845
Source: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
The table below summarizes data provided by Saskatchewan
Government Insurance that represents the total number of alcoholinvolved collisions occurring between 2000 and 2004 within the Regina
Qu’Appelle Health Region. Property damage, personal injury, and
fatalities remained relatively consistent. The number of persons injured
in alcohol-involved collisions increased slightly. Fatalities decreased in
2004.
Year
Property
damage
Personal
Injury
Fatal
Number
Injured
Number
Killed
2000
217
165
5
268
5
2001
217
115
6
195
7
2002
221
133
7
204
7
2003
200
133
7
210
8
5
217
5
2004
188
142
Source: Saskatchewan Government Insurance
CANNABIS
Cannabis substances are readily accessible within the city of Regina and
the RQHR. Unfortunately, there is no statistical data available to
indicate the prevalence of the drug within these areas.
COCAINE
Cocaine, and “crack” are quite accessible within the RQHR. Currently,
however, data is not available, beyond anecdotal sources, to confirm
accurate prevalence information.
HEROIN, MORPHINE AND OTHER
NARCOTICS
Morphine and other narcotics, including heroin, are available and readily
sold on the streets of Regina as well as in rural communities that fall
within the RQHR. As with other substances that are commonly used in
the community, data is not available to indicate the actual number of
people using, selling or partaking in activities related to these drugs.
METHAMPHETAMINE
Methamphetamine, which is gaining a strong foothold in the other
regions of Saskatchewan, have not been as prevalent within the RQHR.
Once again, hard data are not available to support the anecdotal
information that is currently available.
MORBIDITY *
ALCOHOL
The RQHR recorded 2100 alcohol related diagnosis in the 2004/2005
year. This number is slightly elevated, showing an increase of 76 cases
over 2003/2004. 67% of the alcohol- related diagnoses were for
emergency room visits. 28% were for individuals aged 36 to 45 years,
nearly twice the number for any other age group.
CANNABIS
In 2004/2005 there were 396 cannabis-related diagnoses made in the
RQHR. Cannabis related diagnoses have increased slightly, reporting 55
more than recorded in 2003/2004. Approximately 45% of the cannabisrelated diagnoses involved individuals aged 18 to 25 years and required
inpatient services.
COCAINE
The RQHR recorded an increase in cocaine related diagnoses in
2004/2005, rising to 343 from 290 diagnoses in 2003/2004. 88% of
cocaine-related diagnoses were spread relatively evenly over the 18 to
25, 29 to 35 and 36 to 45 age groups.
HEROIN, MORPHINE AND OTHER
NARCOTICS
In 2004/2005, 366 opiate-related diagnoses were recorded within the
region. An increase was also noted in this area, rising from 308
diagnoses in 2003/2004. 59% were females, with 30% of these being
between 18 and 25 years of age.
OTHER DRUGS
“Other Drugs” include substances such as sedatives/hypnotics,
stimulants other than cocaine, such as methamphetamine, as well as
solvents. In 2004/2005, The RQHR recorded 295 sedative/hypnotic
drug related diagnoses. This number has increased only slightly from
2003/2004, noting 21 additional diagnoses. Conversely, in 2004/2005,
140 stimulant related diagnoses were recorded, a 65% increase from
the 91 diagnoses in 2003/2004. Solvent related diagnoses dropped by
50%, from 83 in 2003/2004 to 42 diagnoses recorded for 2004/2005.
The multiple/unspecified drugs diagnoses rose by 11% in 2004/2005,
from 317 to 352.
* The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems -ICD-10 is used to code
the underlying cause of Morbidity. The ICD-10 codes used in this report are attached as Appendix 'A'.
The following graphs display the annual variation for drug-related
hospital separations in the past 3 years. Data are divided into
emergency room visits and inpatient visits.
Data provided by R.Q.H.R. Hospital Information Systems.
Drug-related Emergency Room Visits
1 ,6 0 0
1 ,4 0 0
1 ,2 0 0
1 ,0 0 0
F2002
F2003
800
F2004
600
400
200
nt
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Drug-related Inpatient Visits
900
800
700
600
500
F2002
400
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F2004
300
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100
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**2 ‐ NOTE: Commencing 2002, with the implementation of ICD‐10, the sedative stats include ʺPoisoning by
psychotropic drugsʺ which was not included in previous years stats (accounts for significant increase)
*3 ‐ NOTE: In 2002, RQHR implemented ICD10 diagnostic coding. This may impact code groupings.
MORTALITY
ALCOHOL
In 2004, the Coroners Branch, Saskatchewan Justice investigated a total
of 41 deaths that occurred within the RQHR where alcohol was present.
That number is down considerably from 2003, where 64 deceased
persons had consumed alcohol. The chart below provides a breakdown of
the cause of death recorded. It should be noted that deaths investigated
by the Coroner’s Branch are not representative of all deaths that occur
within the RQHR.
Number of Deceased
Saskatchewan Coroners Branch - Alcohol Present at Death
21
25
20
15
10
5
0
tu
Na
9
6
3
2
ra
s
au
lC
es
Ac
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i
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Ho
ici
de
U
e
nd
te
rm
in
e.
..
Classification of Death
Blood alcohol readings ranged from 0.01 mg to 0.55 mg per 100 m
CANNABIS
Data collected by the Coroners Branch, Saskatchewan Justice in 2004
indicated 4 deaths wherein THC, or Cannabis, was present.
COCAINE
In 2004, five deaths were investigated by the Coroner’s Branch that
involved the presence of cocaine in the deceased. Interestingly, three of
these deaths also involved the use of Methadone.
HEROIN, MORPHINE AND OTHER
NARCOTICS
In 2004, the Coroner’s Branch confirmed that a total of 20 deaths were
investigated where opiates/methadone were present in the deceased. It
should be noted that since many of these were accidental deaths and
natural deaths, it is reasonable to assume that in some cases morphine
may have been administered by medical personal attending the person.
OTHER DRUGS
In total, the Coroners Branch, Saskatchewan Justice investigated 74
deaths in 2004 that found drugs to be present within the deceased. This
number is up slightly from 2003, wherein 69 deaths were investigated.
Deaths are categorized by incident, inclusive of accidental, suicide,
natural and homicidal deaths. The graph below illustrates the breakdown
of deaths as they relate to each category.
Number of Deceased
Saskatchewan Coroners Branch - Drug Present at Death
46
50
40
30
20
10
0
16
9
2
1
t
Na
al
ur
t
en
d
i
c
Ac
al
e
cid
i
Su
de
ici
m
Ho
d
Un
Classification of Death
Source: Coroner’s Branch - Saskatchewan Justice
et
ed
in
m
er
C
s
se
u
a
Hospital Information Systems provides data related to the number of
drug-related deaths that occurred in the hospitals in Regina. Some of
this information may be duplicated in the data reflected by the Coroner’s
Branch.
The following table shows the number of deaths in 2004 as recorded by
Hospital Information Systems, for emergency visits and inpatient visits.
34
35
30
25
20
Emergency
15
10
5
6
1
0
2
0
2
3
1
0 1
0 0
0 0
01
Inpatient
1
Al
co
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l
C
oc
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NOTE: The cause of death may or not be attributable to the substance abuse; these statistics represent only the
disposition code of ʺDeath on or after arrivalʺ for these cases.
ENFORCEMENT
ALCOHOL
As in other regions and provinces, the RQHR deals with the difficulty of
impaired driving. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan has dealt with higher
rates of impaired driving per capita than other jurisdictions in Canada.
In 2004/2005, 788 individuals were referred for assessment under the
Safe Driving legislation for offences primarily related to drinking and
driving. 778 of these individuals were referred directly from
Saskatchewan Government Insurance for Driving While Under the
Influence (DUI). The numbers indicate an 18% reduction from 2003. Of
the DUI referrals, 83% were male, while 17% were female. The Safe
Driving legislation provides an opportunity for early intervention that
individuals may not otherwise be aware of or utilize.
Drinking and Driving Convictions – Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
1999 to 2004
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Impaired driving
178
179
195
216
212
162
Fail to Comply
with a Demand
Over 80% mgs.
Alcohol in Blood
Impaired Driving
Causing Bodily
Harm
Impaired Driving
Causing Death
Total
29
36
35
47
43
31
579
617
695
788
732
616
5
10
13
14
8
8
1
1
1
0
0
0
792
843
938
1065
995
817
Source: Saskatchewan Government Insurance
Alcohol related infractions, as identified by the Alcohol and Gaming
Regulation Act, Provincial Statues, are tracked by the Regina Police
Service. Data collected for 2004 is illustrated in the charts below
identifying drinking and driving convictions within the RQHR as well as
charges laid for various alcohol-related infractions that occurred within
the city of Regina.
It should be noted that most of the statistics in the chart below are
enforcement-driven. Incidents tracked can be officer-initiated through
drinking and driving spot checks, and therefore should not be
interpreted literally as a measure of prevalence.
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Alcohol and Gaming Regulation
Act
Provincial Statutes
Having Alcohol in Public Place
- Charged
- Guilty not charged
117
4
166
4
90
3
65
3
34
1
Having Alcohol in Auto
- Charged
- Guilty not charged
184
0
184
0
132
0
167
1
132
1
Intoxicated in a Public Place
- Charged
- Guilty not charged
221
1462
120
715
183
1424
241
1518
198
1221
Criminal Code Alcohol Related
Offences
Impaired Operation of a Motor
Vehicle
- Causing Death
- Causing Injury
- Impaired Driving
- Exceed .08
2
31
724
621
2
23
629
516
0
27
509
399
0
21
526
416
0
19
399
325
Source: Regina Police Service
The reduction in impaired driving offences has been partially attributed
to the Enforcement Overdrive project, a partnership between
Saskatchewan Government Insurance and the Regina Police Service.
This partnership has provided the resources to conduct high visibility
roadside check stops at strategically selected locations. The objective
was to reduce the incidence of impaired driving and make the streets of
Regina safer.
This program has been credited with successfully reducing alcohol–
related traffic collisions by 30% and has increased public awareness of
an increased risk of being stopped by 31%.
CANNABIS
The Regina Police Service records reported violations of the Controlled
Drug and Substances Act throughout the year. The charts and table
below are representative of reported violations pertaining to cannabis
over the last 8 years within the city of Regina.
Year
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Possession Cannabis
Poss. For The Purpose of
Trafficking
87
93
113
104
129
164
171
150
9
26
35
10
6
1
n/a
n/a
Trafficking Cannabis
16
91
67
24
23
14
37
36
Importation of Cannabis
0
1
0
6
5
0
4
2
Cultivation
6
14
13
6
4
13
15
12
Total Violations
118
225
228
150
167
192
227
200
Source: Regina Police Service
Reported Violations Controlled Drug & Substances Act
Possession
Cannabis
Number of Violations
250
Poss. For The
Purpose of
Trafficking
200
150
Trafficking
Cannabis
100
Importation of
Cannabis
50
0
Cultivation
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Year
Total Violations
Source: Regina Police Service
In 2004, total reported cannabis violations decreased by 12% when
compared to data collected in 2003. In fact, all forms of violations
related to cannabis decreased slightly in 2004.
COCAINE
The graph and table below illustrate the number of cocaine related
violations that occurred in Regina from 1997 to 2004, according to
statistics compiled by the Regina Police Service.
40
35
30
Possession of Cocaine
25
20
Trafficking Cocaine
15
Poss. for the Purpose of
Trafficking
Total Violations
10
5
0
1997
1998
1999
Year
Possession of Cocaine
Trafficking Cocaine
Poss. For The Purpose of
Trafficking
Total Violations
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
1
8
2
9
11
11
16
18
1
11
3
7
8
3
18
19
1
3
2
21
11
16
4
20
0
19
0
14
0
34
0
37
Source: Regina Police Service
2004 statistics infer that total violations for cocaine have remained fairly
consistent with violations in 2003.
.
HEROIN, MORPHINE AND OTHER
NARCOTICS
The total number of charges for heroin and other narcotics violations
increased by 58% in Regina in 2004. The table below provides a
breakdown of specific violations with corresponding number of violations
reported.
An eight-year trend for total reported violations for heroin and NCA
violations within Regina is also provided.
Year
Possession of
Heroin
Possession of
other NCA
Trafficking
Heroin
Trafficking
other NCA
Importation
of Heroin
Importation
of NCA
Total
1997
0
1998
0
1999
0
2000
0
2001
0
2002
0
2003
0
2004
0
26
19
29
27
13
31
19
34
0
0
1
0
2
0
1
1
17
18
8
8
11
5
12
18
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
3
1
0
2
0
1
1
43
40
39
37
28
36
33
54
Source: Regina Police Service
Total Reported Violations - Controlled Drug & Substances Act
Number of Violations
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
Year
Source: Regina Police Service
2002
2003
2004
An eight-year analysis of total violations within the city of Regina
indicates that cannabis infractions continue to be more prevalent than
other drug offences. This trend is consistent with 2003 data. However,
in 2004, heroin and other NCA offences showed a 64% increase over
the previous year, while cocaine violations increased by 10 %.
Trends in Cannabis, Cocaine, Heroin and Other NCA
Violations in Regina
Number of Violations
250
200
Cannabis
Cocaine
Heroin and Other NCA
150
100
50
0
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
Year
Source: Regina Police Service
Despite the notable fluctuations within the data presented under the law
enforcement portion of the report, increases and decreases in violations
are not necessarily indicative of the prevalence of substances within the
community. The data collected may be a reflection of an existing police
focus and/or investigative cycles at a particular time, which may explain
some of the spikes and dips in enforcement statistics.
In addition to enforcement provided by the Regina Police Service, The
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) collect information on violations
that occur outside the city of Regina. The violations include charges
related to the possession and trafficking of various substances, including
cannabis and cocaine. Unfortunately, data from the RCMP is unavailable
for inclusion in this report.
TREATMENT
In 2004/2005 the reported number of clients receiving treatment within
the RQHR, for alcohol and cannabis problems, increased by 8% and
12% respectively. The most dramatic change was registered for people
using cocaine, showing an increase of 40% over the previous year.
ALCOHOL
In 2004/2005, a total of 4680 treatment episodes were recorded by
Addictions Services, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region for alcohol
dependency. Of these clients, 72% identified that their use of alcoholic
beverages was causing a problem. Additionally, nearly 2% of clients
receiving treatment identified with drinking Lysol and other nonbeverage sources of alcohol.
CANNABIS
A total of 2563 treatment episodes were recorded by Addictions
Services that identified clients using cannabis, 12% more than in
2003/04. 67% of these clients reported that their use of cannabis was
problematic.
COCAINE
Addictions Services recorded a total of 1825 treatment episodes wherein
clients were being treated for cocaine use in 2004/2005. This is a 40%
increase over the previous year. Of these clients, 87% (1591)
acknowledged that their use of cocaine was causing problems in their
lives.
HEROIN, MORPHINE AND OTHER
NARCOTICS
Clients engaging in narcotic use that are being treated within drug and
alcohol treatment agencies do not have their specific chemical usage
directly tracked. Rather, information is collected under the factions of
prescription and non-prescription narcotic use. In 2004/2005, 1192
clients reported using prescription narcotics. 70% identified their use as
problematic. Likewise, 1111 clients reported using non-prescription
narcotics, 67% recognized their use to be causing problems in their
lives.
OTHER DRUGS
Upon admission into a treatment program for drug and alcohol use,
clients are asked to complete a self-report questionnaire. The RQHR
uses the information provided to gain a better understanding of how
drugs, alcohol and various mood-altering chemicals are perceived to be
impacting the lives of clients.
The graphs below display self-reported client information for both males
and females. Clients responded to the type of chemical used as well as
the potential problems the chemical(s) can cause in their daily lives.
Chemicals used by MALE clients in the RQHR
4000
3500
Number of clients
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
Ly
H
al
so
lu
l
c
An
in
og
tien
D
ep
s
re
ss
C
an
ra
ts
ck
/C
oc
M
ar
ai
ne
iju
an
a/
H
as
Tr
an
h
qu
iliz
Pr
er
s
es
N
N
c
r
ic
on
ip
ot
tio
-P
in
n
re
e
N
sc
a
rip
rc
ot
tio
ic
n
s
N
ar
co
tic
Se
s
St
im
da
ul
tiv
an
es
ts
/H
yp
no
tic
s
St
er
oi
ds
Al
co
ho
l
So
lv
en
ts
0
NOT USING
YES, NOT CREATING PROBLEMS
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
YES, CREATING PROBLEMS
Chemical used by FEMALE clients in the RQHR
4000
Number of clients
3500
NOT USING
3000
2500
YES, NOT
CREATING
PROBLEMS
2000
1500
YES, CREATING
PROBLEMS
1000
500
So
Al
co
ho
l
lv
en
ts
Ly
H
al
so
l
An l u c i
no
ti ge
D
ep
ns
re
ss
C
an
ra
ck
ts
/C
M
oc
ar
ai
i ju
ne
an
a/
H
Tr
as
an
h
qu
iliz
Pr
er
es
s
N
cr
N
on
ip
i
c
tio
ot
-P
in
n
re
e
N
sc
ar
rip
co
ti o
tic
n
s
N
ar
co
tic
Se
St
s
da
im
tiv
u
l
es
an
/H
ts
yp
no
tic
s
St
er
oi
ds
0
Self-report data collected by the RQHR for 2004/2005 is consistent with
past usage trends. Alcohol, nicotine and marijuana continue to be the
most commonly used chemicals. However, since 2003/2004, reported
nicotine usage has dropped slightly while cocaine has dramatically
increased.
Most common drug use of MALE & FEMALE clients combined
100%
836
977
90%
832
1591
1709
80%
Clients
70%
3284
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Alcohol
NOT USING
Marijuana
Nicotine
Cocaine
YES, NOT CREATING PROBLEMS
Prescription
Narcotics
Stimulants
YES, CREATING PROBLEMS
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
YOUTH
The Regina and Area Drug Strategy (June 2003) identified gaps in
services to youth who are experiencing harmful involvement with
alcohol and drugs. The Healing Continuum working group has begun
the task of developing strategies to bridge the identified gaps in service.
(Ref: Regina and Area Drug Strategy section of this report - page 37).
A higher degree of integration of services for youth has been developing
within the RQHR. This is especially true for high-risk youth who require
a more varied services (health, social services and justice). This
integration of services was one starting point to close these ‘in-between’
areas, where youth were becoming lost in the system.
The expected increase in the use of ‘crystal meth’ waned to some
degree within the RQHR and the number of youth referred to addiction
counsellors dropped off significantly. The demand for information on
crystal methamphetamine continued to be high and has played a
significant role in raising the communities awareness of this drug and
the consequences of use.
Alcohol and marijuana continue to be the primary drugs of choice
among the youth in Regina and area. The use of ecstasy and other club
drugs continues to be part of the rave scene and has not shown a
significant increase in usage. Cocaine use is increasing and although it
is mainly an “occasional use” drug, it appears to be reaching more
youth and at a younger age.
Addiction Services’ Parent Information Groups and Parent Support
Groups continue to be an important community resource for parents in
gaining an understanding of the impact alcohol and drug use has on
their lives, as well as on the lives of their affected children.
INJECTION DRUG USE
The prevalence of drug use, as identified by clients within the RQHR,
had been consistent in the past, whereby Talwin & Ritalin (commonly
know as T’s and R’s) topped the list of preferred injected drugs, followed
by cocaine and Morphine/Demerol. Starting in 2002, data indicated a
change of preference among users. In 2004/2005 cocaine continues as
the most injected drug, followed by Morphine/Demerol and finally Talwin
& Ritalin.
In je c tio n D r u g U s e r e p o r te d b y c lie n ts in 2 0 0 4 /2 0 0 5
500
450
450
M ost
In je c te d
400
350
296
300
250
2nd M ost
In je c te d
219
200
181
173
166
150
88
22
11 11
21
20
22
14
1 2 3
26
13
St
im
ul
an
ts
Tr
an
qu
illi
ze
rs
oc
ai
ne
H
al
lu
ci
no
ge
ns
C
M
H
or
er
ph
oi
in
n
e/
D
em
er
ol
Ta
lw
in
/R
ita
lin
0
O
th
er
3 rd M o s t
In je c te d
61
2 0 6
0 0 0
2 6 2
St
er
oi
iv
es
ds
/H
yp
no
tic
s
50
65
Se
da
t
100
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
To better understand the population of intravenous drug users, statistics
were compiled by the RQHR based on clients receiving treatment. Data
was gathered and collated by age, sex, cultural heritage and drug
preferences of IV drug users.
The two charts below illustrate the prevalence of IV drug use in 2004
amongst both males and females in accordance to their age range.
Both males and females 19 years and older used IV drugs significantly
more often when compared to males and females under the age of 18
within and prior to the last 12 months. Females accounted for 76% of
the IV drug use for clients under the age of 18 years.
Male and female IV drug use by clients, 19 years and older, has
increased approximately 17% when compared to data collected in 2003.
Males that have used in the last 12 months increased 22%, while
females in the same category jumped 5%.
Number of Clients
IV Drug Use By Age For Male RQHR Clients
2,312
2500
2000
18 Years and Under
19 Years and Over
1500
1000
565
365
500
18
337
248
10
4
0
Used in
Last 12
Months
Used Prior
to Last 12
Months
Both
None
Use
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
IV Drug Use By Age For Female RQHR Clients
Number of Clients
2500
2000
1500
920
1000
428
500
240
49
22
21
183
201
0
Used in
Last 12
Months
Used
Prior to
Last 12
Months
Both
None
Use
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
18 Years and Under
19 Years and Over
The chart below displays IV drug use as identified by clients who
disclosed their Aboriginal Status. The numbers indicate the high
prevalence of IV drug use within the First Nations clients that utilize the
addiction services within the RQHR. These numbers support the need
for culturally appropriate treatment services within our health region.
2500
2000
1500
Used in Last 12
Months
1000
Used Prior to
Last 12 Months
500
0
In
N
ui
on
t
-A
bo
rig
in
al
et
is
M
N
on
-S
ta
tu
s
Both
St
at
us
Number of Clients
IV Drug Use by Aboriginal Status
None
Aboriginal Status
Source: Saskatchewan Health Information Products Group
To moderate the impact of injection drug use, the RQHR has various
methadone services within the community. In 2004/2005, 945 active
Methadone Program clients were recorded within the region. This
number has increased from the 856 active methadone clients recorded
in 2003/2004. Although these numbers provide an indication of those
who participate in the methadone programs, accurate information
regarding the number of clients involved in Regina is difficult to obtain
due to several factors. Clients may be registered with a clinic and then
discontinue services, only to return at a later date or they may move
from the area without notifying the program co-ordinators. As well,
clients are able to get Methadone prescribed by an approved physician
without having to be involved with the clinic’s counselling staff. There
are currently 11 clients within the RQHR who are prescribed Methadone
for pain relief purposes only.
HIV/AIDS AND HEPATITIS C
The RQHR reported 15 newly diagnosed cases of HIV in 2004.
Additionally, 211 new cases of Hepatitis C were reported. HIV
transmission and risk is primarily prevalent across Canada through both
injection drug use and sex trade work. A large portion of HIV infections
seen within the RQHR are considered to be chronic, having been
acquired in years past. A considerable portion of these individuals
received testing while present in a drug and alcohol rehabilitation
program.
In 2004/2005, the RQHR recorded a total of 117 hospital separations for
people with HIV/AIDS. Hospital separations refer to the number of
patients admitted to a Regina hospital through either inpatient
admission or emergency room admission. This year, 65 inpatient
admissions and 52 emergency room admissions are a 95% increase
when compared to 2003/2004 data.
The graph below represents a 5-year trend of the inpatient and
emergency room admissions (hospital separations) for patients known
to have HIV/AIDS. Only hospitals located within Regina are included.
Regina Hospital Seperations - 5 Year Trend
70
Admissions
60
50
40
Hospital Visits
Emergency Room Visits
30
20
10
0
2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005
Year
NEEDLE EXCHANGE
The goal of Needle Exchange Program that exists within the RQHR is to
reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS and other blood borne diseases such as
Hepatitis A, B and C through needle sharing.. This program is part of
RQHR’s harm reduction strategy that aids in the recovery of dirty
needles through program that provides them with clean needles, sharp
containers and other related supplies to injection drug users in
exchange for used or dirty needles.
There are three centres located throughout the city of Regina including
the Carmichael Outreach Centre, AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan
and the RQHR Street Project. In 2004/2005, the three centres provided
a total of 1,656,382 needles that were exchanged through the program.
The following graph indicates the growth of the Needle Exchange
program in Regina in the last 12 years.
Total Number of Needles Distributed
1992-2004
1800000
Number of Needles Distributed
1600000
1400000
1200000
1000000
800000
600000
400000
200000
0
APSS
CARMICHAEL
STREET
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
218,973 361,145 422,201 624,235
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
65,928 218,401 403,452 452,069
0
0
191
7787
2001
2002
2003
2004
22,374 34,982 74,491 115,248 197,008 332,706 500,397 543,095 529,510 543,850 580,078
Year
Source: RQHR Population and Public Health
THE REGINA AND AREA DRUG STRATEGY
Throughout 2004, the Regina and Area Drug Strategy (RADS) working
groups continued to meet on a regular basis in an effort to develop work
plans to address the priority projects that were identified from the
report. The multi-agency nature of the membership of each group
allowed for the strong connections that had developed in the initial
stages of the RADS to continue.
With a community-wide initiative such as the RADS, project evaluation
was one of the major issues addressed. In 2004, the Steering
Committee contracted INNOVA Learning of Regina to develop an
evaluation plan. Representatives of INNOVA met with each working
group to develop the Evaluation Framework, which was presented in
October 2004.
The Evaluation Framework is available for viewing online at:
http://www.reginadrugstrategy.ca/report.shtml
Following is a listing of the working groups and a list of the projects that
have been the focus of each group and the progress to date. By having
all the community partners involved in identifying the main priority
issues, the working groups were assured that the issues were
important, not only in the service organizations but also within the
community.
Prevention

To develop current and relevant curriculum for schools.
To develop a peer support network.
To develop of a series of ‘user-friendly’ pamphlets for youth, parents
and community resources.
To develop a telephone hotline for information and referrals related
to addiction issues.
These were addressed initially by developing a proposal and securing
funding to develop these resources and programs. Included were plans
to develop a ‘speakers bureau’ of youth that had experiences with
addiction and recovery to share.
Healing Continuum

To review existing pathways and treatment services.
To initiate a meeting between addiction treatment centres.
To develop resources for youth, including stabilization and other
program components.
To more closely monitor the increased use of methadone and the
subsequent impacts on births and deaths.
The review of existing treatment services and pathways led to a decision
to focus on services for youth, which were noted to be lacking within the
RQHR. At the workgroup’s request, one of it’s members completed a
series of youth focus groups, interviews with community service
providers and a review best practice literature to identify gaps in
services. The report filed in November of 2004 identified several gaps
in services and as a result the workgroup were able to develop several
recommendations specific to youth treatment services.
Harm Reduction

To develop a ‘Brief Detox and Homelessness Shelter’ in Regina.
To improve access to services for pregnant women not presently
accessing pre-natal care.
To continue to assess the Harm Reduction services available in
Regina.
The development of a Brief Detox and Homelessness Shelter was
initiated by hiring consultants to develop a business case and
investigate funding sources for this initiative. The report, entitled “The
Crossroads - A Rehabilitation Centre for Homeless, Substance
Dependent and Dual Diagnosed Individuals”, was submitted in
December 2004. Plans to develop this centre continued through yearend.
Assessing and improving access to services was initiated by holding
consultations with identified at risk women. This led to expanded
services at identified community health care centres in central Regina
and expanded out-reach services within the community.
Plans to evaluate and design a comprehensive model of Harm Reduction
in Regina continue to progress by researching services models that
could hold some benefit to the community.
Community Justice

To assess the critical pathway to treatment currently in place for
offenders as they move through the Criminal Justice System.
To ensuring appropriate substance abuse programming for offenders
both in the community and incarcerated.
To assess the feasibility of developing a Drug Treatment Court in
Regina.
To assess inconsistencies and related concerns with Methadone
services for criminal offenders.
The group determined that funding sources were available for
developing a Drug Treatment Court for Regina and proceeded to
develop a proposal for the “Regina and Area Drug Treatment Court”.
The group consisted of individuals from Justice, Health, the RQHR, the
Regina Police Service, the RCMP and other addiction services in the
Regina area. The proposal was submitted in January 2005 and project
planning continues.
Work on the other projects continued with regular meetings to continue
to assess the critical pathway to treatment and determine gaps in the
system. The group determined that addiction-related programming
within the Regina Correctional Centre could be expanded. This project
also continues.
Capacity Building

To develop an inventory of Human Services providers within the
RQHR.
To develop a research project regarding ‘volunteerism’ in addictions
treatment.
To research and develop an inventory of available ‘funding sources’.
To strengthen the network of community partners and continue to
develop programs within the community.
The Capacity Building committee continued to build on the project’s
communication strategy by developing and expanding the Regina and
Area Drug Strategy website. Many projects were initiated within the
RQHR to continue to build on the foundations that were laid in the first
full year of the RADS. With community development being one of the
goals of the RADS, the committee has continued to encourage and
support multiple organizations in developing projects within the
community. Planning and development continued through out the year.
APPENDIX A
ICD-10 Diagnostic Codes for Substance Related Hospital Cases
ALCOHOL
I42.6
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
alcohol
Alcoholic cardiomyopathy
K29.2
Alcoholic gastritis
K700,1,2,3,4,9
Alcoholic liver disease
R78.0
Finding of alcohol in blood
T510,1,2,3,8,9
Toxic effect of alcohol
Z50.2
Alcohol rehabilitation
Z71.4
Alcohol abuse counselling and surveillance
F100,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
COCAINE
R78.2
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
cocaine
Finding of cocaine in blood
T40.5
Poisoning by cocaine
F140,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
CANNABIS
F120,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
T40.7
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
cannabinoids
Poisoning by cannabis (derivatives)
OPIATES
F110,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
T400,1,2,3,4,6
R78.1
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
opioids
Poisoning by opium, heroin, other opioids,
methadone, other synthetic narcotics, other and
unspecified narcotics
Finding of opiate drug in blood
SEDATIVES/HYPNOTICS/TRANQUILIZERS
F130,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
T42.3
T430,1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9
R78.5
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
sedatives or hypnotics
Poisoning by barbiturates
Poisoning by psychotropic drugs, not elsewhere
classified
Finding of psychotropic drug in blood
HALLUCINOGENS
F160, 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
hallucinogens
Poisoning by lysergide [LSD], other and unspecified
T408,9
psychodysleptics [hallucinogens]
Finding of hallucinogen in blood
R78.3
STIMULANTS
F150,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
T43.6
Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of other
stimulants, including caffeine
Poisoning by psychostimulants w/ abuse potential
SOLVENTS
F180, 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of
volatile solvents
Toxic effect of organic solvents
T520,1,2,3,4,8,9
MULTIPLE/UNSPECIFIED DRUG USE
F190, 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 Mental and behavioural disorders due to multiple drug
use and use of other psychoactive substances
Finding of other drugs of addictive potential in blood
R78.4
Z50.3
Drug rehabilitation
Z71.5
Drug abuse counselling and surveillance
HIV/AIDS
B24
Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease
R75
Laboratory evidence of human immunodeficiency
virus [HIV]
Contact with and exposure to human
immunodeficiency virus [HIV]
Asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]
infection status
Z20.6
Z21
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
ADS
AIDS
Anti-Depressant
Canadian Addiction
Survey
Cannabis
CCENDU
CCSA
Cocaine
Controlled Drugs
and Substances Act
Crack
DWI
Ecstasy
Gamma
Hydroxybutyrate
(GHB)
Addiction Services
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is
the most serious outcome of Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. It is a
serious (often fatal) disease of the immune
system transmitted through blood products
especially by sexual contact or contaminated
needles.
A major classification of drugs used medically to
improve mood in severely depressed patients.
A national Canadian survey that reports on
prevalence and harmful effects of substance
abuse.
Formal Latin name for marijuana, cannabis is the
most commonly used illicit drug; considered a
soft drug, it consists of the dried leaves of the
hemp plant; smoked or chewed for euphoric
effect.
Canadian Community Epidemiology Network on
Drug Use
Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse
A highly addictive stimulant drug derived from
the cocoa plant that produces profound feelings
of pleasure.
An Act respecting the control of certain drugs,
their precursors and other substances and to
amend certain other Acts and repeal the Narcotic
Control Act in consequence thereof
A purified and potent form of cocaine that is
smoked rather than snorted
Driving while intoxicated, or driving while
impaired. General term used to describe the
criminal action of operating a vehicle while
intoxicated, impaired or under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs.
Drugs used for their euphoric effects
A powerful, rapidly acting central nervous system
depressant. It is typically abused for its ability to
produce euphoric and hallucinogenic states and
for its alleged function as a growth hormone that
releases agents to stimulate muscle growth
HEP-C
RADS
A viral hepatitis clinically indistinguishable from
hepatitis B but caused by a single-stranded RNA
virus; usually transmitted by parenteral means
(as injection of an illicit drug or blood transfusion
or exposure to blood or blood products).
A strong narcotic analgesic drug derived for the
opium poppy. It is a narcotic that is considered a
hard drug; a highly addictive morphine
derivative; intravenous injection provides the
fastest and most intense rush.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus that
causes AIDS.
Intravenous Injection. The fastest route into the
blood stream.
Traditionally used as a cleaning product, a nonalcoholic beverage that is consumed by
individuals, often causing an intoxicated state,
including behavioural and psychological changes.
Information regarding hospital inpatient and
emergency clients that present with various
ailments.
The most potent natural opiate compound
produced by the opium poppy, classified as a
narcotic drug extracted which has powerful,
habit-forming properties used to relieve pain.
Information regarding the cause of death of an
individual.
A class of drugs (e.g., heroin, codeine,
methadone) that are derived from the opium
poppy plant, contain opium, or are produced
synthetically and have opium-like effects. Opioid
drugs relieve pain, dull the senses and induce
sleep.
Narcotic Control Act.
Non Government Organization
Narcotics obtained without a doctors prescription
such as over the counter or off the street
narcotics.
Narcotics obtained by the client through a
doctor’s prescription.
The number of people in a given population
affected with a particular disease or condition at a
given time.
The Regina and Area Drug Strategy
RQHR
Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region
Heroin
HIV
IV
Lysol
Morbidity
Morphine
Mortality
Narcotic
NCA
NGO
Non-prescription
drug
Prescription drug
Prevalence
Safe Driving
Legislation
Legislation passed in 1996, that requires drivers
convicted of various impaired driving charges to
attend addiction assessments and follow through
on resulting referrals prior to reinstatement.
Sedatives/Hypnotics A group of drugs used to produce sedation
(calmness). Sedatives include sleeping
medications and anti-anxiety drugs.
SLGA
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
Solvent
Fluids used to dissolve or dilute oil paints and
their mediums, such as Turpentine. This
substance can be used to achieve a “high” by
breathing in the fumes of the chemical.
STD
Sexually Transmitted Disease.
Steroids
(Also called "Anabolic Steroids") Prescription
drugs derived from growth-stimulating male
testosterone. Though long taken by some
professional and amateur body builders -- and
other athletes -- to increase muscle size and
endurance, there are side effects (including liver
and heart damage, and mental problems)
associated with the use of some steroids.
Stimulants
Drugs that stimulate or speed up central nervous
system functioning. Stimulants include caffeine,
nicotine, amphetamines (Speed) and cocaine.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol. The primary psychoactive
compound present in cannabinoids (marijuana,
hashish and hashish oil).
Trafficking
Buying and selling illegally; For the purpose of
this report, it refers to the acquisition, transfer
and disposal of drugs.
Tranquilizers
(major) Drugs used to relieve symptoms of
severe psychosis (for example, Thorazine);
(minor) Psychoactive drugs with sedative and
anti-anxiety effect; also used as anticonvulsants
and muscle relaxants (an example is Valium).