What behavior is considered the number one drug problem in the U.S. Navy?

Alcohol abuse is considered the number one drug problem in the U.S. Navy due to its prevalence and the impact it has on sailors' health, performance, and overall readiness. Historically, alcohol has been more accessible and socially integrated within naval culture compared to other substances. It can lead to significant issues such as impaired judgment, accidents, and destructive behavior, directly affecting operational effectiveness. Furthermore, alcohol-related incidents often lead to disciplinary actions and a negative influence on unit cohesion and morale.

In contrast, while cocaine use, marijuana use, and prescription drug misuse are issues in their own right, they have not reached the same level of prevalence or have the same historical context within Navy culture as alcohol abuse. As such, alcohol remains the primary concern for leadership when addressing substance misuse and the associated impacts on the Navy's mission and personnel.