Science and Medicine

Heroin in Australia

Heroin is classified as an opioid drug produced from the opium poppy. The illicit use of heroin in Australia emerged during the 1960s. Its origins have been linked to American troops stationed in major cities such as Melbourne and Sydney, who introduced the drug to the red-light districts whilst on their recreational leave. Since then, the use of heroin amongst the general Australian population has fluctuated, with reports of a shortage occurring at the turn of the century. It is now believed to be the fourth most common principle drug of concern in Australia, with reports noting a decline in the use of the drug since the early 2000s. Currently, the illegal use of heroin in Australia is low, despite the market being highly stable.

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• ▸Climate change and infectious diseases
• ▸Geology of Guinea
• ▸Anthrax

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