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News Volume 12, Number 6 November/December 1997

Public Television Series on Addiction Will Draw on NIDA Research

NIDA Director Dr. Alan I. Leshner and NIDA-funded researchers are working with commentator Bill Moyers and Public Affairs Television on "Moyers on Addiction: Close to Home," a five-part public television series scheduled to premier on March 29. The special will cover issues surrounding the science of addiction as well as prevention and treatment. "We are extremely glad to be participating in this project," says Dr. Leshner. "A critical goal of NIDA's public health mission is to educate the public about drug abuse and addiction, and this series will have a tremendous impact on furthering that goal."

Earlier this year, Dr. Leshner was interviewed by Moyers for the series and was filmed at Eastern Middle School in Silver Spring, Maryland, as he presented scientific facts about drug addiction to the students and responded to their questions. NIDA has also contributed to a printed viewers' guide and student guide to be used in a national outreach campaign leading up to the Moyers series. The campaign will include a variety of activities for communities, Public Broadcasting Service stations, and national organizations to challenge outdated perceptions of addiction.

In addition, Dr. Leshner will participate in a nationwide satellite Town Meeting that will be broadcast a few weeks before the public television series begins. The meeting, directed by Public Affairs Television, will present scientific facts about drug abuse and addiction in an open forum.

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