KUWAIT CITY, June 26: Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, Minister of Health, has highlighted the global nature of the drug addiction crisis, noting its continuous increase and pervasive threat to households worldwide. He emphasized the need for united efforts from various state ministries, following directives from the Council of Ministers, to combat this devastating scourge that poses a significant challenge to societies.

Speaking at the Addiction Treatment Center's celebration of the World Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held under the slogan "The evidence is clear... let us continue prevention," Dr. Al-Awadhi outlined the Ministry's ongoing efforts to combat addiction. These efforts include providing advanced detoxification services and promoting sophisticated rehabilitation and psychological treatment programs.

Dr. Al-Awadhi announced the opening of a new expansion at the addiction treatment center, which will add 155 additional beds, primarily for women and adolescents. This expansion underscores Kuwait's commitment to providing essential health and rehabilitation care for those affected by addiction. He praised the collaborative efforts of various state ministries and civil society institutions in tackling the issue, which affects not only Kuwait but also the GCC countries and the entire world.

The Minister stressed the existence of an integrated system in Kuwait aimed at strengthening combat efforts and rehabilitating young people to become effective and positive members of society. He emphasized that the celebration's purpose is to educate communities about the dangers of drugs, how to recognize addiction symptoms, and how to prevent addiction through proper socialization and meeting the needs of young people in ways that match their intellectual and physical development.

Dr. Al-Awadhi noted that this day, recognized by the United Nations, involves global participation to exchange research results and evidence-based data, which contribute to saving lives and enhancing cooperation toward a drug-free society.

In his speech, Dr. Hussein Al-Shatti, Director of the Addiction Treatment Center, described the current efforts as a crucial battle to protect youth and future generations from addiction. He called for concerted efforts and cooperation among all state institutions. Despite the center's achievements, Dr. Al-Shatti acknowledged that the fight against addiction is ongoing, pointing to the increase in addiction cases among young people globally in recent years. He stressed the need to intensify efforts and develop strategies to confront this growing challenge.

Dr. Al-Shatti outlined the center's comprehensive strategy, which includes broad awareness campaigns, improved therapeutic services, and enhanced community care to better serve the community.