The Fourth Global Forum on Alcohol, Drugs and Addictive Behaviors (FADAB) took place at the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva from June 27th to 30th, 2023. This forum provided a platform for in-depth discussions on policy, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation concerning alcohol, drugs, gambling, and gaming addiction.
During the opening ceremony, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Botswana's First Lady Neo Jane Masisi, US Congressman Patrick Kennedy, and UK MP Dan Carden delivered impactful speeches.
Prof. Hao Wei, representing The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, presented a comprehensive conference report titled "Current Trends, Challenges, and Responses to the Drug Situation in China". The report showcased compelling data indicating a consistent decline in the number of drug users and drug-related cases over the past five years under the leadership of the Party and the government. Notably, the number of successful drug rehabilitations has also seen a continuous increase for three consecutive years. Prof. Hao emphasized that China's progress in anti-drug efforts stands as a remarkable accomplishment in the global context. In addition to sharing the promising achievements, Prof. Hao detailed the existing challenges in drug addiction treatment within the country and outlined effective strategies to tackle these issues. Prof. Hao's project group has made significant contributions in this field, including establishing a community-based seamlessly linked drug detoxification model, pioneering evaluation of neuromodulation treatment for heroin dependence, conducting clinical studies on long-acting naltrexone implants, and spearheading the development of digital therapies targeting addictive behaviors. These endeavors have garnered extensive recognition and widespread acclaim.
(First review: Li Lihuizi, Second review: Zhao Xiaohua, Third review: Zhao Liping)
Source: Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University
Author: Deng Qijian
