Effects of alcohol and drugs on adolescents
Harmful drinking among adolescents is a major concern in many countries. Drug use among 15–19 year olds is also an important global concern because of the following:
a) It reduces self-control and increases risky behaviours, such as unsafe sex or dangerous driving.
b) It is an underlying cause of injuries (including those due to road traffic accidents), violence and premature deaths.
c) It can also lead to health problems in later life and affects life expectancy.
What can be done:
d) Setting a minimum age for buying and consuming alcohol
e) Regulating how alcoholic drinks are targeted at the younger market are among the strategies for reducing harmful drinking.
f) Drug control may focus on reducing drug demand, drug supply, or both.
Credit: WHO