A new SLHI report, Adult Substance Use in Arizona 2010, includes some findings using data from the 2010 Arizona Health Survey (AHS) that may seem contrary to popular notions of who is using and possibly abusing alcohol, prescription drugs and illicit drugs. According to the report:

• People with higher incomes were more likely to begin drinking before age 21 than those in lower income categories.
• A higher percentage of Whites, Hispanics/Latinos and African Americans reported ever consuming alcohol compared to Native Americans and Asian/Pacific Islanders.
• The highest rate of current marijuana use was among those with incomes in the $30,000-$49,999 range.
• Of those who misused any prescription drug, the highest rate was among 60-69 year olds.
• Seventeen percent of adults indicated psychological distress in the past 30 days – a rate much higher than 4.8 percent reported nationally in 2008.

The 2010 Arizona Health Survey is based on data gathered from 8,200 adults and 2,100 children, making it one of the most comprehensive statewide efforts ever undertaken to inform health, health care and well-being. To learn more, visit the AHS website.