New research links increasing cocaine consumption in the UK to heart problems in young people. Britain might be heading to a healthcare disaster, according to a leading specialist.
A study on cocaine use among patients complaining of chest pains, conducted at the Accident and Emergency unit of St Marys hospital in London during three years, shows that between 7% and 10% of the patients tested positive for cocaine. Among the under-40s, figures are higher: during weekdays, a third of this group were found to have traces of cocaine in their urine, while over the weekend around a half had taken the drug. Tests on a control group admitted without chest pains show results as low as 3%.
Reports show that cocaine use has increased in the UK during recent years and its price has decreased.
Cocaine tightens up the blood vessels, making the heart work harder and rising blood pressure, which can lead to chest pains, heart attacks and strokes.
Prof John Henry, who led the study, foresees an increase in heart problems. Were attacking the other risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking...but the rise in cocaine usage is the introduction of another serious risk factor. Its already impacting on emergency services, said the leading toxicologist.
The report is expected to be published later this year.
Posted: 24th October 2005
