This title examines one of the world's critical issues, the Mexican drug war. Readers will learn the historical background of this issue leading up to its current and future impact on society. Elements of Mexico's drug war such as cartels, police and government corruption, kidnappings, and The United States' involvement are discussed in detail, as are the drugs that are traded such as marijuana, opium, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Issues related to drug use such as child neglect and abuse, low user achievement, meth mouth, disease transmission, and its affects on children including their recruitment into cartels are covered. Legislation and programs to address drug use, such as the Merida Initiative, Controlled Substances Act, the use of paraquat, and the argument to legalize drugs are introduced. Engaging text, informative sidebars, and color photographs present information realistically, leaving readers with a thorough, honest interpretation of Mexican drug war. Features include a timeline, facts, additional resources, Web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Issues is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.