Written with the objective of providing a comprehensive and balanced view of the problem of drug addiction – with particular reference to Sri Lanka. Dr Mahendra Perera, a well reputed practising psychiatrist with much experience in dealing with drug addiction and Dr. Howard Ross-Parker, a senior applied statistician and university teacher, clearly explains that addiction should be looked upon as a biological illness. The overarching theme of this book is that addiction is a chronic relapsing illness of the mind that needs to be managed by health focused actions rather than prohibition and punishment. The various authors clearly explain that drug dependence is a medical condition with social implications which (like diabetes, heart disease, obstructive lung disease and other long term medical conditions) can be successfully managed and treated – although it is not easy. This is a book that will be of use to those who, at a personal as well as professional level, have to deal with the misuse and abuse of drugs and a valuable resource for parents, teachers and health professionals.