Drug trafficking

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Drug trafficking is a global illicit trade involving the cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Drug trafficking is a key part of this dynamic, as drugs are produced and distributed to meet the high demand for these illegal substances. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that the annual global drug trade is worth $320 billion.

Types of Drugs Trafficked[edit | edit source]

The most commonly trafficked drugs include cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana. These drugs are typically produced in one region and then transported through a variety of means to the consumer markets.

Cocaine[edit | edit source]

Cocaine is primarily produced in the Andean region of South America, particularly in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. It is typically transported by sea or air to Central America and the Caribbean, and then onwards to consumer markets in North America and Europe.

Heroin[edit | edit source]

Heroin is primarily produced in Afghanistan, which accounts for approximately 90% of the world's supply. It is typically transported through Central Asia and the Middle East to consumer markets in Europe and North America.

Methamphetamine[edit | edit source]

Methamphetamine is primarily produced in Mexico and Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines. It is typically transported by sea or air to consumer markets in North America and Oceania.

Marijuana[edit | edit source]

Marijuana is produced in many parts of the world, including North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. It is typically transported by land, sea, or air to consumer markets in the region where it is produced.

Consequences of Drug Trafficking[edit | edit source]

Drug trafficking has a wide range of negative consequences, including violence, corruption, and instability. It also has a significant impact on public health, as it contributes to the spread of addiction and HIV/AIDS.

Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking[edit | edit source]

Efforts to combat drug trafficking include law enforcement, drug treatment programs, and prevention efforts. The United Nations and other international organizations also play a key role in coordinating these efforts.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Drug trafficking Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD