Drug Addiction Shoots Up in Mexico

Drug addiction is skyrocketing in Mexico, which used to be simply a transit point for illegal drugs rather than a major consumer market, reports USA Today. As increased border security foils smugglers along the American border, the drugs end up being sold to Mexicans. Crack cocaine use has risen sharply, and heroin and crystal meth are becoming a problem for the first time.

Illegal immigrants with drug habits deported by America are adding to the problem. The government is building hundreds of new rehab centers, but the easy availability of drugs means it will be tough to beat the addiction epidemic. In border towns, cars called "ice cream trucks" cruise the streets all night selling drugs. (More Mexico stories.)