Question

Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow.

Deaths related to the use of drugs were estimated at about 5,00,000 in 2019, 17.5 percent more than in 2009. Liver diseases attributed to Hepatitis B are a major cause of drug-related deaths, according to UNODC, accounting for more than half of the total number of deaths attributed to the use of drugs. Drug overdoses account for a quarter of drug-related deaths.

Opioids contribute to account for the most severe drug-related harm, including fatal overdoses, when used non-medically. At the global level, two-thirds of direct drug-related deaths are due to opioids, and in some sub-regions the proportion can be as high as three-quarters of such deaths.

(a) Why are people taking opioids more prone to liver diseases attributed to Hepatitis B?

(b) What is meant by direct drug-related disease?

(c) (i) What is the scientific name of the plant from which the opioids are derived and from which part of the plant is it extracted?

OR

(c) (ii) State two common warning signs of drug abuse among the youth.

Hint:

Awareness of the health risks associated with opioid abuse, especially liver damage and overdoses, is vital for prevention. Identifying early signs of drug abuse can help in timely intervention and rehabilitation.

Answer 1

(a) People taking opioids are more prone to liver diseases caused by Hepatitis B because opioid abuse can weaken the immune system and often involves risky behaviors like sharing contaminated needles, increasing the risk of Hepatitis B virus transmission. (b) Direct drug-related disease refers to diseases that are directly caused by drug consumption, such as overdoses, liver damage, or infections due to contaminated needles. (c)

• [(i)] The scientific name of the plant is Papaver somniferum. Opioids are extracted from the latex (milky sap) obtained from the seed capsule of the plant.
• [(ii)] Two common warning signs of drug abuse among the youth are:
  • Sudden behavioral changes, such as withdrawal from family or friends.
  • Drop in academic performance or disinterest in activities once enjoyed.