2005 Programs and Events

Opium Detoxification Session Begins in Lao American Project (Feb. 24, 2005)

Narcotics Affairs Section director David Wise (kneeling) with detoxification session participants.

On February 24, Narcotics Affairs Section director David Wise attended the opening of the LAP's second opium detoxification session for 2005. The 21-day session includes 32 opium addicts (among them four women) from Muchigao village, Samphan district, Phongsali province.

The village, one of the poorest in the LAP area, has about 64 known opium addicts among its 81 families. One elderly addict told Nash that he became addicted to opium over 25 years ago after a severe injury. The villager related that he used the opium because there were no available medicines. Since most opium poppy in the area has been eradicated, he told officials that "I am glad to participate in this session." He noted that his son, who is also the village chief, convinced him to go.

The LAP doctor is supervising the detox session with assistance from the district's health office. Following detox, district and LAP officials will follow up with monthly visits to the addicts' homes for several months. LAP's target is to detoxify about 500 opium addicts during 2005.