What is the 12-month prevalence for non-alcohol drug substance use disorder?

The 12-month prevalence for non-alcohol drug substance use disorder is indeed around 3.9%. This statistic reflects the percentage of the population that meets the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder related to illicit drugs or prescription medications (excluding alcohol) within a specified timeframe of one year. This figure is derived from comprehensive population-based surveys, such as the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), which aim to estimate the occurrence of such disorders in the general population.

In interpreting the data, it’s important to consider that substance use disorders vary widely in prevalence based on factors like demographics, socioeconomic status, and the type of substance involved. While overall substance use, especially involving legal and illicit drugs, may appear high, the specific diagnosis of substance use disorder—which denotes a more severe impact on the individual’s life—is less prevalent, hence the lower percentage.