单选题
Heroin addictions today is found chiefly among young
men of minority groups in ghetto (犹太人区) areas. Of the more than 60 000 known
addicts, more than half live in New York State. Most of them live in New York
City. Recent figures show that more than half of the addicts are under 30 years
of age. Narcotic addiction in the United States is not limited to heroin users.
Some middle-aged and older people who take narcotic drugs regularly to relieve
pain can also become addicted. So do some people who can get drags easily, such
as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. Studies show that this type of addict has
personality and emotional problems very similar to those of other regular
narcotic users. Many addicts admit that getting a continued
supply is the main object of their lives. An addict's concentration on getting
drugs often prevents continuing an education or working at a job. His health is
often poor. He may be sick one day from the effects of withdrawal and sick the
next day from an overdose. Statistics show that an addict's life span may be
shortened by 15 to 20 years. The addict is usually in trouble with the family
and almost always in trouble with the law. Some studies suggest
that many of the known narcotic addicts had some trouble with the law before
they became addicted. Once addicted, they may become even more involved with
crime because it costs so much to support the heroin habit. Most authorities
agree that the addict's involvement with crime is not a direct effect of the
drug itself. Turning to crime is usually the only way to get that much money.
The addicts' crimes are nearly always thefts or other crimes against
property. Federal penalties for illegal narcotics usage were
established under the Harris on Act of 1914. The Act provides that illegal
possession of narcotics is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. Sentences
can range from 2 to 10 years for the first offense, 5 to 20 years for the
second, and 10 to 20 years for further offends. Illegal sale of
narcotics can mean a fine of $ 20 000 and a sentence from 20 to 40 years for
later offenses. A person who sells narcotics to someone under 18 is refused
parole and probation, even for the first offense. If the drug is heroin, he can
be sentenced to life imprisonment or to death.
单选题
What is the topic of this passage?
A. How to cure a drug addict.
B. Heroin and narcotic.
C. The harm of the drags and the anti-drug measures taken by the
government.