A survey of 280,000 adolescents aged 11, 13, and 15 in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada has revealed a concerning pattern of indiscriminate stimulant use among teenagers. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the alarm over the widespread use of alcohol and e-cigarettes among young people, warning that the long-term consequences of these trends are worrying.
The report showed that about 57% of 15-year-olds have consumed alcohol at least once in their lives, with rates slightly higher in women at 59% compared to 56% in men. While alcohol consumption has decreased in men overall, it has increased in women. The normalization of alcohol among teenagers was attributed to its availability in supermarkets and stores, prompting the need for policies to protect young people from the harmful effects of alcohol.
In addition to alcohol, the report highlighted the increasing use of e-cigarettes among young people. Traditional cigarette smoking has declined, but e-cigarette use has risen sharply. About 32% of 15-year-olds have tried e-cigarettes, with 20% reporting use within the past 30 days. WHO regional director Hans Kluge emphasized the urgent need for measures such as increased taxes, restrictions on distribution, and bans on flavored e-cigarettes to address this growing public health threat.
The report also emphasized the impact of adolescent behavior on adult habits, with early stimulant use posing a higher risk of addiction later in life. WHO underscored the importance of addressing these issues to prevent individuals and society from paying a heavy price in the long run.