[. . .The anecdotal information, however, suggests there may be a wave of new patients coming, and it will include many heroin users. . .]
“Anecdotal information” is what reporters use to prove a point when no concrete information exists.
The true extent of the heroin problem among American soldiers now serving in Iraq and Afghanistan is unknown
How do you write an article on drug abuse and not have a soldier as an example. The Marines test guys all the time and lose very few due to positive tests.