Japan Launches Drug Abuse Prevention Awareness Site
Overview
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare launched a special website explaining cannabis risks and how to respond when offered drugs, and released findings from an awareness survey of people under 30. In 2025, arrests for cannabis offenses reached a record 7,120 people, with those under 30 accounting for more than 70%. The survey found that about 90% recognized the physical and mental harms of drug misuse, about 70% recognized cannabis dependence, and about 80% said they would stop a family member or friend from using cannabis.
Key points
- In 2025, arrests for cannabis offenses reached a record 7,120 people, with those under 30 accounting for more than 70%.
- About 90% of survey respondents recognized the physical and mental harms of drug misuse, and about 70% recognized cannabis dependence.
- About 80% said they would stop a family member or friend from using cannabis.
Overview
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare launched a special drug abuse prevention awareness website in response to cannabis arrests remaining high and continuing to exceed stimulant arrests, and to the spread of misuse among young people.
The public awareness content is titled "A Moment's Judgment: The Right Knowledge Keeps Hidden Risks at a Distance."
Details
The special website introduces cannabis risks and ways to respond when offered drugs.
The online awareness survey was conducted from August 28 to 31, 2026, among 500 men and women aged 18 to 29 across Japan. It asked about understanding of drugs' physical and mental effects and opinions on public awareness efforts to prevent drug misuse.
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare says it will continue promoting public awareness to prevent drug misuse, taking the survey findings into account.