On World Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking, the Sassari Local Health Authority (ASL) is opening the doors of its Pathological Addiction Service. And it's making an appeal through the SerD's director, Paolo Milia: "We are available to the public, even for just a little advice," the psychiatrist stated yesterday at the San Camillo office. "Access to the service is free, open, and completely anonymous. Whether you're directly affected or concerned about a family member or friend, we're here, and together, we can find the first step toward a life free from addiction and drugs."
The company's data shows a growing number of people using the facility. "Beyond the core of patients with long-standing opioid addiction problems, there has been an increase in cannabis use, which has become almost endemic, and cocaine use. The fact remains that heroin maintains a stable position in the drug market. This significant finding is linked to the lowering of the average age at which people begin risky behavior and substance use. Events like these are essential for raising awareness, raising awareness of the phenomenon, and, above all, promoting the treatment options offered locally by the Regional Health Service."
The regional situation is concerning because the island is among the top three regions in Italy for marijuana cultivation, while the Sassari area is experiencing an increase in demand for treatment and a growing use of cocaine, crack, and synthetic substances, especially among younger populations. In terms of numbers, the Local Health Authority (ASL) is currently treating approximately 3,200 patients, of which 800 are new admissions registered in the period 2025-2026 and approximately 200 are readmitted (patients who have left the system and then returned). The average age is around 38, 80% are men, and 35-40% of patients are cocaine addicts . Most users are heroin addicts, although polydrug use appears to be increasingly widespread.