Medical Minds and Meth Conference Targets Medical Experts

The first of it’s kind in Minnesota, the Medical Minds & Meth conference aims to better educate medical professionals throughout the state on this growing epidemic. In the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the abuse of methamphetamine (meth) in Minnesota and throughout the nation.

BUFFALO, MN (PRWEB) September 20, 2006 -— The first of it’s kind in Minnesota, the Medical Minds & Meth conference aims to better educate medical professionals throughout the state on this growing epidemic. In the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the abuse of methamphetamine (meth) in Minnesota and throughout the nation. County law enforcement officials across 44 states reported that methamphetamine remains the number one drug problem in their county, according to a recent survey by the National Association of Counties (NACo). Another NACo survey revealed that there are more meth-related emergency room visits than for any other drug and the need for treatment programs for meth addiction is growing dramatically.

Slated to take place on October 18, 2006 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, the conference is designed to offer a core curriculum on the signs and symptoms of meth abuse, proven prevention practices, intervention and treatment methods available to meth addicts. Keynote speakers include whistle blower Victor DeNoble, Ph.D., a former research scientist at Philip Morris Co. and a key witness in the case against tobacco companies, talking about the pharmacological basis of meth addiction along with a wide variety of breakout sessions ranging from Meth & Babies and Meth in the ER to Screening for Meth Use and Raising the Bottom for Adults who need Treatment.

Sponsored by the Methamphetamine Education and Drug Awareness (MEADA) Coalition of Wright County (MN), the conference is their response to an outpouring of requests by medical professionals seeing meth addicts daily in their clinics and hospital emergency rooms. “MEADA’s expertise has been tapped by states throughout the country from Florida to Texas,” says Karla Heeter, MEADA chairwoman and a Wright County commissioner. “We felt it important to provide medical experts with the knowledge and resources they need to help meth addicts recover.”

MEADA works to mobilize communities to combat the meth epidemic by educating youth, families and citizens on the dangers of meth. Additional conference support has been provided by Allina Hospitals & Clinics, Minnesota Teen Challenge, the Initiative Foundation and Hythiam.

This one-day conference at the Minneapolis Convention Center takes place from 7:45 am to 5:00 pm on October 18, 2006 and includes three general sessions and three breakout sessions, continental breakfast and lunch. Costs range from $195 for medical/non-medical professionals to $125 for medical residents and students. To register or for more information, visit meada.org or call 763.537.6977.

###