Half of Americans victim of substance abuse: Poll

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

ANKARA (AA) - Almost half of U.S. adults have dealt with substance abuse problems in their family, according to a recent Gallup questionnaire.

American analytical and consulting company announced Monday that 46% of respondents said they have experienced substance abuse in their home, 18% of it just alcohol problems and 10% just drug problems, while 18% have experienced both.

The company said in a statement that the results of the poll are based on combined data from 2018 and 2019 across the firm’s annual Consumption Habits survey, which it conducts each July.

"Both questions are lifetime measures, asking Americans if drinking or drug abuse has ever been a problem in their family," it said.

Reported drinking problems in family hover at 35% across all adult age groups while the drug is a bigger problem in families for adults under 55 with 31% than those 55 and older, %24.

"Women are slightly more likely than men to report family problems with drugs, while adults without a college degree (39%) are more likely than those with a degree (32%) to report family drinking problems," the poll showed.

Those who rarely or never attend a worship service report higher rates of family problems with drinking and drugs than those who go weekly, according to the results.

Also, the poll revealed some regional differences over substance abuse, Western residents more likely than those in the East to report drinking problems. Westerners are also more likely than Easterners and Southerners to report family drug problems.

The Gallup poll is based on a survey of 2,558 people, aged 18 and older, in all states and the District of Columbia, between July 1-11, 2018, and July 1-12, 2019.