Substance abuse is a significant global burden, with widespread impacts on public health, social welfare, and economic development. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol and drug use disorders are the leading causes of disability worldwide, accounting for over 5% of the global burden of disease.

The impact of substance abuse is particularly significant in low- and middle-income countries, where access to prevention, treatment, and support services may be limited. In these settings, substance abuse can exacerbate existing health disparities and contribute to cycles of poverty, violence, and social inequality.

Substance abuse also has a significant economic impact, both in terms of healthcare costs and lost productivity. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the global cost of drug use is estimated to be over $300 billion annually, with the majority of these costs borne by society as a whole.

Overall, substance abuse represents a significant global health and social issue, highlighting the need for comprehensive prevention, treatment, and support services to address the complex and multifaceted issues associated with addiction.