Numerous health risks have been identified with substance abuse (use of illicit drugs and excessive use of alcohol). Abusers can lose resistance to disease, develop heart problems, contract infections, or become malnourished, physically exhausted, and even die.

Reality is often distorted, reactions may be slower, and the risk of accidents can increase. Extended substance abuse can cause coma, respiratory arrest, and convulsions. Injected drugs increase the risk for infectious diseases such as hepatitis and AIDS. Body systems are affected. The liver, lungs, and heart are damaged.

For women, there is an increase in birth defects associated with use during pregnancy.

The Student Services office has more in-depth information on the inherent health risks related to substance abuse.

More Information

Standard of Conduct and Disciplinary Sanctions
Drug and Alcohol Centers Information and Referral Offices Half-Way House Re-Entry Programs
Legal Sanctions