The three-part report summarizes existing research on drug abuse in American Indian communities, suggests ways to combat the problem, and describes many different kinds of drugs and their effects. In Part I, much recent research is cited. Although methodology and results vary greatly, the research clearly points to a serious drug problem in many Indian communities. High and ever-increasing rates of marijuana, alcohol, and inhalant use are noted. Among the factors correlated with high drug use among Indian youth are the absence of one or both parents, peer encouragement in use of drugs, school troubles, and negative self-image. Part II contains many suggestions for ways to fight drug abuse, some of which are in use. Role model programs, cultural activities, treatment and prevention programs, and drug education geared to all segments of the community are discussed. Part III is a discussion of nine major drugs: inhalants, marijuana, alcohol, amphetamines, barbiturates, psychedelics, cocaine, heroin, and PCP. This section describes how the drugs work, what they are, how they are taken, how they affect the user, and what their dangers are. The report is intended for use by people in the field who work with the drug abuse problems of American Indian youth. (SB)