Every 10th person in Germany has an addiction

One in 10 people in Germany has an addiction problem, the German Centre for Addiction Issues (DHS) said on Wednesday, reported dpa.

"We are concerned about the spread of crack - a smokable form of cocaine - and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, a substance that is more life-threatening than heroin," the DHS warned.

The drug problem in Germany is growing, but at the same time help is being cut, added the umbrella organization, which is based in the city of Hamm near Dortmund.

"In order to ensure the future viability of our economic and social model, we need an addiction and drug policy that recognizes the current state of research and looks constructively to the future."

Ahead of the German election in February 23, the DHS published its key demands in a paper, which was also signed by the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists.

"The situation is serious," it said, pointing out that the figures on addiction are just the tip of the iceberg.

"Many more people consume alcohol, tobacco and other addictive substances in a way that is harmful to their health, even if they are not addicted."