Study verifies airborne cocaine in Rome

"Cocaine in the air in Italy: study" (Breibart.com, May 31, 2007) reports that an Italian scientific study has found particles of cocaine in Rome's air. The study by the council's atmospheric pollution institute, also found traces of cannabinol, a component of marijuana and hashish, as well as nicotine and caffeine, a statement from the council said.

"The highest concentration of cocaine was found in the centre of Rome and especially in the University of La Sapienza area," the study said.

"We cannot in any way confirm that the consumption or trafficking of drugs is more common in that area," the statement said, adding that more in-depth study would be needed to determine that.

The highest concentrations of cocaine (about .1 nanograms per cubic metre) were detected during the winter months, according to the study.