Analysis of wastewater shows an increase in cocaine use in Limassol and Ayia Napa

In Limassol and Ayia Napa, cocaine use has become more frequent. The increase in drug use was revealed by the results of a pan-European study analyzing wastewater.

The study of sewage for the presence of medicinal and psychotropic drugs was conducted in 24 European countries, including Cyprus. The results are based on chemical analysis of wastewater in cities participating in the study.

In Cyprus, the results were obtained through cooperation between the International Water Research Center of the University of Cyprus and the Cyprus Anti-Drug Authority.

According to Christos Minas, President of the Cyprus Anti-Drug Authority, this study allows for a more detailed understanding of trends in psychoactive substance use in different regions and countries. Moreover, wastewater analysis can identify substance consumption preferences by region and track the evolution of drug use trends over time.

In addition to cocaine, the results also indicate an increase in methamphetamine and MDMA use in Cyprus, although this level remains below the European average.

According to the study, amphetamine is most commonly used in cities in Northern and Northeastern Europe (Sweden, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands), while in most Southern European countries, this drug is much less common. In Cyprus, amphetamine use was low compared to other European countries over the year but showed a slight upward trend.

Methamphetamine use in Europe was mainly limited to the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but recent analyses have shown a slight increase in Belgium, Germany, Spain, and some northern countries. In Cyprus, most areas have experienced a slight decrease in methamphetamine use, while levels in Paphos and Ayia Napa remain similar to last year.

Studies show a relatively low level of cocaine use in most European countries. Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain remain at the top, with the highest concentrations recorded in cities in these countries. In Cyprus, a slight increase was detected in Limassol and Ayia Napa. In other cities in the country, cocaine use remained at last year's level.

MDMA use occurs most frequently in Central European cities (Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands), as well as in Spain. In Cyprus, MDMA consumption remains low, but compared to last year, it has increased in most cities except Limassol and Larnaca.

This year's survey shows mixed trends in cannabis use: half of the participating cities show an increase, while the other half show a stable or decreasing trend.

The highest usage is recorded in the Czech Republic, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia. In Cyprus, despite its widespread prevalence, cannabis use is relatively low compared to the European average.