Costs of Substance Abuse in America Addiction to tobacco, alcohol, and drugs inflicts a substantial toll on Americans, measurable in terms of deaths and illnesses, social costs, and economic costs. More than one-fourth of Americans over age 15 have a physiological dependence on at least one addictive substance. In addition, approximately 40 million illnesses and injuries each year are due to addiction. Each year, some 40 million debilitating illnesses or injuries occur among Americans as the result of their use of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. Combined, the effects of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs inflict a greater toll on the health and well-being of Americans than any other single preventable factor.
Prevention can play a significant role in reducing the economic burden of substance abuse.