WASHINGTON, March 8 (UPI) -- A survey of U.S. military personnel shows the first increase in smoking in 20 years, researchers said Monday.
The 2002 survey is the latest in a series involving more than 12,500 men and women in active U.S. forces around the world to assess their mental and physical health.
Between 1980 and 1998, the survey found a continuing decline in the use of illegal drugs, alcohol and cigarettes by military personnel, from 28 percent using illegal drugs in 1980 to 3 percent in 2002.
Heavy drinking also declined, from 21 percent in 1980 to 15 percent in 1998, but it rose again to 18 percent during 2002. The survey also linked heavy alcohol use to mental health problems and lost productivity.
Cigarette smoking dropped from 51 percent in 1980 to 30 percent in 1998 but increased to 34 percent in 2002.
Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said the increases were not surprising given the stresses placed on military personal in performing their role in recent worldwide events.
