Substance abuse is the most serious—and neglected—women’s health issue in the United States. It is the number one preventable cause of death and disease among women in our nation. Tobacco, alcohol and/or drugs are implicated in the three leading causes of death in women: heart disease, stroke and cancer. The pathways to substance abuse in women--originating in childhood and progressing through adulthood and even into old age--are different from those of men and must be recognized and addressed accordingly.

Since 1996, the Foundation has had a strong partnership with CASA, providing over $1.5 million in grants for the research and production of a trilogy of reports focused on substance abuse and American women. The first study explored the health and economic impact of substance abuse on American women. The second study looked specifically at substance abuse among women ages 60 and older, with a particular focus on the effects of abuse and misuse of prescription medications. The most recent report, "The Formative Years," provided an analysis of the characteristics of girls and young women who abuse substances, when they are at highest risk, and the impact of that abuse on their health and well-being. All three studies form the basis for CASA’s first health book, Women Under the Influence, published by John Hopkins University Press in early 2006. A national CASACONFERENCE was held in March 2006 to present the book's findings and prevention, treatment and policy recommendations to substance abuse professionals and service organizations for women and girls. In addition, in late March 2006, CASA participated in a summit of another Foundation grant recipient, Women in Government, which focused on women and substance abuse. Going forward, the Foundation is supporting CASA’s “Policy to Practice” Initiative, which will continue to mobilize the learnings of Women Under the Influence at the state, county and community levels.