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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Ian Sample Science editor

Drug use in England spikes during heatwaves and big sports events, research finds

People in Greenwich Park during amber heat health alert as temperatures reach 33C.
The research led by Imperial College London highlights when emergency services should prepare for more overdoses and drug-related incidents. Photograph: Guy Corbishley/Alamy Live News/Alamy Live News.

Traces of illicit drugs in wastewater in England show spikes in usage during bank holiday weekends, heatwaves and sports events, while the Eurovision song contest ranks as one of the most drug-fuelled nights of the year.

Tests at water treatment plants across the country found clear patterns in drug taking through the week and changing seasons, and revealed particularly high levels of cocaine and ketamine use compared with other European countries.

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