Oklahoma Leads For Methamphetamine Use In The Workforce

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- The state of Oklahoma is one of nine states which showed a dramatically higher positive prevalence rate for methamphetamine than the national average according to new Drug Testing Index data released by Quest Diagnostics Incorporated.

Topping the list was Hawaii, Arkansas was second and Oklahoma was third at 240 percent. Kansas came in 9th.

• Hawaii - 410% greater than the national average
• Arkansas - 280% greater than the national average
• Oklahoma - 240% greater than the national average
• Nevada - 180% greater than the national average
• California - 140% greater than the national average
• Wyoming - 130% greater than the national average
• Utah - 120% greater than the national average
• Arizona - 100% greater than the national average
• Kansas - 80% greater than the national average

The report says attempts to control the availability of over-the-counter medications used in methamphetamine production persist, but do not appear to date to have completely curbed the illicit manufacturing of meth.

Read the DTI report.

Experts also believe that an increasing number of people using methamphetamine as a "functional drug" – using the stimulant to work double shifts or multiple jobs and keep up at home.

Those experts say this is a symptom of the down economy and people's need to work increasing hours.