Many people think of drugs as a teen problem. However, research from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows that it is increasingly becoming a problem among older adults.

The number of patients between the ages of 45 and 64 being treated for medication and illicit drug conditions increased more than 100 percent between 1997 and 2008.

HHS Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrator Pamela Hyde says this is a negative trend.

"Substance abuse is rising, and drug abuse of all kinds is exploding as a major public health concern for our country," says Hyde. "The challenge for our health care practitioners is to see that patients receive medications when there is medical need but also to help prevent the adverse health consequences from drug use."

The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that many medications are beneficial for patients when taken properly. Adverse health consequences can arise, including addiction, when patients don't take medications according to physicians' orders. They note that the most commonly abused medications fall into three categories: opioids, CNS depressants, stimulants.
 

Most Americans will be required to have health insurance by 2014. A number of people may end up purchasing individual health insurance plans, obtaining group coverage, or filing for government assistance as a result. While that date may seem far away for the average consumer, the clock is ticking for those who have to ensure all the appropriate measures are in place.

Iowa is set to receive a grant worth more than $313,700 to help the state guide consumers through the process of enrolling in healthcare programs. Given the number of uninsured Americans, however, there are a number of people that will need help navigating the enrollment process.

Governor Chet Culver says he is pleased the state has received the grant.

"This is very good news for Iowa's consumers," says Culver. "This grant will ensure that Iowans will have quick and immediate help in entering into the new health care system."

Culver has voiced his concerns over healthcare and insurance in the past. Earlier this year, he called on a major health insurance provider in the state to justify an 18 percent rate hike. At that time, Culver said he was concerned about the increases.