Illegal Drug Use Cost U.S. $193 Billion in 2007, Study Says

Illegal drug use in the U.S. is estimated to have cost the economy more than $193 billion in 2007, according to a government study.

The study, released today by the Justice Department’s National Drug Intelligence Center, includes costs associated with crime, health and productivity.

The study says the cost of illegal drug use is comparable with diabetes, which a 2008 government study said cost more than $174 billion each year.

“This study shows the economic cost of illicit drug use is significant,” said Michael F. Walther, director of the drug intelligence center, in a statement. “This nation’s drug problem is on par with other health problems.”

To contact the reporter on this story: Justin Blum in Washington at jblum4@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Mark Silva at msilva34@bloomberg.net