Netherlands National Drug Monitor - Research and Documentation ...

The thinking behind these five key indicators is that the seriousness of the drugs situation
in a country is reflected by the extent of drug use in the general population,
the number of problem drug users and addicts, the extent of demand for treatment
and the rate of illness and deaths associated with drug use. However, trends in these
indicators may be influenced by factors other than problem drug use alone. For further
information, see Box 1.
Where available, data are recorded on supply and market, such as the price and quality
of drugs. The NDM also reports on registered drug crimes and how law enforcement
agencies respond to these crimes. This is also conducted on the basis of a series of
indicators, for which the WODC collects data (Meijer, Aidala, Verrest, Van Panhuis &
Essers, 2003; Snippe, Hoogeveen & Bieleman, 2000).
What do the epidemiological key indicators signify
The key indicators of the EMCDDA are intended to reflect the status of drugs
problems and to enable improved monitoring of developments. They are also
designed to contribute to a broader analysis of policy outcomes, although this
remains problematic (Van Laar & Van Ooyen, 2009). The EMCDDA has developed
protocols for five drug indicators, which the EU member states have to use in the
data collection (EMCDDA, 2009). This is aimed at improving inter-country comparability
at European level of data on drug use and its consequences. Although distinct
progress has been made in this respect, the goal has not yet been fully reached.
Therefore differences between countries, particularly smaller ones, should still be
interpreted with caution. This Annual Report also describes the situation concerning
the consumption of alcohol and tobacco within the context of these indicators;
with a few exceptions, these data have not been collected in an internationally
standardised manner.
Substance use in the general population (including school-goers)
Population studies on substance use can shed light on the extent of usage and on
risk groups. If conducted at regular intervals and in the same way, these studies
can also reveal trends. Various groups of users are distinguished, in describing
alcohol or drug use. The largest group comprises people who have ever in their
lives consumed alcohol and/or drugs – even years previously (ever use). A better
indicator of current developments is found in the percentage of people who have
lately used a substance - in the past year or month (recent and current use).
The way in which the surveys are conducted (e.g. written, by telephone or faceto-face)
and the circumstances surrounding the interviews (e.g. the presence of a
parent), may influence people’s willingness to ‘admit’ to having used a substance.
However, in view of the relatively liberal climate in the Netherlands regarding drug
28 Netherlands National Drug Monitor - NDM Annual Report 2009