Over 1,500 Babies Born Drug Dependent in Scotland

Since 2017, over 1,500 babies in Scotland have been born dependent on drugs, suffering from Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), which leads to symptoms such as uncontrollable trembling and sickness. Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton emphasizes the need for increased investment in drug services, warning that budget cuts have previously led to the closure of vital support services. Health Secretary Neil Gray acknowledges the issue, asserting that no newborn should face dependency and highlighting a £250 million national mission to reduce drug harm and support families. The statistics reveal the severity of Scotland's drug crisis, as the country records the highest drug death rates in Europe, with significant increases in NAS cases reported. NHS Lothian has the highest incidence of NAS cases, followed by NHS Greater Glasgow and NHS Grampian. Calls for better funding and support continue amidst concerns that current budget proposals may exacerbate the ongoing public health emergency.