[Psychoactive substance abuse. Basis for a regional epidemiologic surveillance system].

A profile of alcohol and drug abusers in many a Latin American country features large groups with no or insufficient access to health services. In the light of such a situation, health resources should focus their efforts on addressing the effects instead of the causes of the problem. Both developing and strengthening local health systems should be a part of the overall effort. Every regional epidemiologic surveillance system must be decentralized, taking into account social participation, local limitations, as well as health personnel training. Placing an emphasis on research as an instrument for action is crucial for Latin America.