To raise awareness about cough medicine abuse, the Manhasset Community Coalition Against Substance Abuse (CASA) joined forces with the Suffolk Coalition to Prevent Alcohol and Drug Dependencies, Inc.; the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA); and the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA).

This town hall addressed the rising number of hospitalizations from cough medicine in Long Island over the past five years. According to an article in the Manhasset Press on August 31st:

Cough medicine abuse has proven to be a growing problem on Long Island. Sixty-two teens from Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester counties, ages 13 to 19, required hospitalization from dextromethorphan abuse last year, compared to only 11 five years ago. The Suffolk County town hall is just one of several initiatives in the area dedicated to preventing teens from abusing cough medicine to get high. Nassau County officials hope to follow suit.

General Arthur Dean, chairman & CEO of CADCA, added:

“The most effective tool we have to fight substance abuse, including cough medicine abuse, is education at the community level.”

Thanks to all of these individuals and organizations for spreading awareness about cough medicine abuse!