"Physical indications of Heroin use include: extreme loss of appetite and weight; needle tracks or punctures; black and blue marks from "skin popping"; scars along veins; cramps; nausea; vomiting; excessive scratching and complaint of itching; sweating; constipation; raw, red nostrils from snorting; runny nose; pin-point pupils and watery eyes; reduced vision; drowsiness; euphoria; trance-like states; excessive thirst; tremors; twitching; unkempt appearance; strong body odor; irritability; chills; slight hallucinations and Lapse of reality."(American Medical Journal, 02/98) Opiates, often called narcotics, are analgesics (pain reducers) which work by depressing the central nervous system. They can also depress the respiratory system. Doctors often prescribe them for severe or chronic pain. Opiates are very addictive, both physically and psychologically. Daily use for only a short time results in addiction. Other medical problems include: infection of the heart valves; skin abscesses; congested lungs; liver disease; tetanus; serum hepatitis; anemia and pneumonia. To compare heroin to the television is absurd. I have extensively studied the affects of heroin, and thus far unable to find any relationship to television. In 1950, only 10% of American homes had a television and by 1960 the percentage had grown to 90%. Today 99% of homes have a television. In fact, more families own a television than a phone. In 1950 when 10% of families had a television, 90% received a news paper. Oddly enough according to the KC Star in 1999, only 25% of KC residents currently subscribe. The author of this essay should know the difference between a convenience and dependency. It is easier to hit the power button of a remote, than to read a news paper. Does this constitute a dependency yes and no. .