Young and addicted: Generation Ketamine
People as young as 21 are having major, risky surgery to treat problems caused by addiction, doctors say.
Experts are warning of an alarming increase in bladder issues among young people due to chronic ketamine use. People as young as 21 are having major, risky surgery to treat problems caused by addiction, doctors say. Latest government figures estimate ketamine use in England and Wales has more than doubled since 2016. That's more than tripled in the under-25 age group in the same period.
Chronic ketamine usage affects the lining of the bladder, and can shrink it. As a result, some urology departments have set up specialist clinics to help the increasing number of young people with bladder issues.
In this episode of our 5 Minutes On podcast, investigations reporter Rachel Stonehouse has visited one of those clinics in Bristol. She speaks to people addicted to ketamine, and those trying their best to help.
