The analysis focuses on: (1) the drug producing countries of Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru; (2) countries located in South America's Southern Tip: Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay; (3) Andean countries that are not producers: Venezuela and Ecuador; and (4) Brazil. The discussion also focuses on the activities carried out by the government and private organizations in the areas of prevention and treatment. The analysis concludes that drug abuse, especially cocaine abuse, has increased and has had varying influences in different countries. In addition, greater resources should be invested in addressing this problem, and countries should work together to achieve better results than they are now finding. 25 references (Author abstract modified)