The review covers drug availability, extent of use, outcomes of drug abuse, and attitude toward drug use as well as the organization and focus of prevention programs. For the countries surveyed, the amount of information available about the extent of drug use varies considerably. Per capita consumption of most drugs, other than alcohol, appears to be largely unknown. Data frequently are unavailable on drug-related deaths, psychoses, and suicides. Several countries do not regard drug abuse to be an important problem, but, in most countries with considerable drug problems, religious leaders, school officials, and the general public seem concerned about drug abuse and supportive of government efforts. The sophistication of prevention programs varies among the countries surveyed and depends on the degree and nature of the problem. A table presents summary information for prevention programs in the 29 countries. 2 tables (Author abstract modified)