HEALTH Minister Horace Dalley yesterday expressed concern at the increasing level of drug abuse among Jamaicans, particularly teenagers, arguing that the growing trend poses a challenge for general family life, the social fabric of the country and the country’s health sector.

He was speaking at the launch of the second annual Sandals International Bike Ride Against Drug Abuse (BRADA) at the Sandals Resorts boardroom on Half-Way-Tree Road in Kingston.

“It is a serious problem that families face at all strata of the society. I have witnessed the breaking down of families due to drug abuse,” Dalley said.

He cited a recently concluded survey in which 35 per cent of boys and 21 per cent of girls in Grades 9-13 in Jamaican high schools said they have smoked marijuana at least once, while eight per cent of the students said they were habitual smokers.

“These figures are alarming and show that something needs to be done about the problem.”

At the same time, Dalley cautioned that drug abuse does not only include the o veruse of cocaine or marijuana but also alcohol and tobacco.

“Two accidents recently were caused by drunk teenagers. We need to promote that alcohol abuse and tobacco abuse are also dangerous for the health of the person,” said the minister.

He said drug abuse has also led to promiscuity and other social ills, particularly among the youth, and urged corporate entities to pledge support in the fight against the problem.

At the same time, the health minister lauded the management of Sandals International for organising the Bike Ride against Drug Abuse, which is set to take place from June 22-26, starting in Ocho Rios and culminating in Negril.

Under the theme “Wheels high, Hopes high, Don’t Dope” the event, being staged in conjunction with the Jamaica Cycling Federation, is expected to raise enough money through pledges, corporate sponsorship and registration fees for the ongoing work of the National Council on Drug Abuse.

During the four-day event, more than 100 local and foreign cyclists will compete for more than $400,000 in cash prizes, trophies, medals and other incentives in professional and recreational categories.

“We are using cycling as a unique tool to get the message across. It is not just about saying no to drugs but also promoting positive lifestyles,” said Chris Zacca, deputy chairman of Sandals.

“We also want to raise greater awareness about drug abuse among the youth and also raise funds for work of the National Council on Drug Abuse,” added Zacca.

BRADA, which was first held in 1999, is this year sponsored and endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board, CVM, Jamaica Beverages Limited, National Commercial Bank, the Observer, among other entities.

reidt@jamaicaobserver.com