News
Most first time prescription drug abusers supplied by family or friends
A new analysis of NSDUH data found that 68% of those reporting first time abuse of prescription painkillers in the past year received or stole the pills from family or friends. A similar picture emerged for occasional abusers but chronic users were more likely to obtain their drugs from doctors or dealers. It is estimated that 2.4 million Americans, about one-third of these adolescents, start abusing prescription drugs every year.
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Research
Ecstasy and speed found to more than double risk of teenage depression
A study of Canadian teenagers in deprived areas of Quebec linked the use of ecstasy and speed with a 60% to 70% increased risk of depression a year later. The risk increased further if both drugs were used. The authors speculate that the drugs could affect hormone levels controlling mood. Co-author Frédéric N. Brière noted that the findings took into account many more influencing factors than other studies, but he also outlined some limitations and areas for further work.
Links:
- Speed and ecstasy associated with depression in teenagers University of Montreal
News
Something else to worry about: soap
The Los Angeles Times reports six local teenagers suffering alcohol poisoning from drinking hand sanitizer. Internet instructions allow young people to easily distil the 'soap' into 120% proof alcohol. Experts warn parents to look out for signs of intoxication and recommend use of foam rather than gel products. Let's hope this trend fails to go viral.
Links:
- A troubling trend in teens drinking hand sanitizer The Los Angeles Times
Research
The 'choking game': advice and new research findings
A new study found that around 6% of US 8th graders in Oregon have tried the 'choking game'. We have previously covered this disturbing flirtation with asphyxiation, but research in Pediatrics now quantifies strong links with poor nutrition and gambling among females, exposure to violence among males, and sexual activity and substance use among both genders. The CDC link below provides concise advice and other information for adults.
Links:
Health Risks of Oregon Eighth-Grade Participants in the “Choking Game” Pediatrics
The Choking Game: CDC´s Findings on a Risky Youth Behavior Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Statistics
Prescription drug abuse blamed for big rise in child poisoning deaths
Although child deaths from 'unintentional injuries' in the USA are falling, the number of 15-19 year teens dying from poisoning almost doubled between the years 2000 and 2009. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention blames the rise in prescription drugs abuse. 'Unintentional injuries' is now the leading cause of death for children from ages 1 to 19.
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Policy
Opinions on the drug legalisation dilemma
This brief but wide ranging article by opinion writer George F. Will discuses interesting elements and statistics of the US 'legalization' debate. Topics include human propensity to addiction; the human, financial and social costs of drug control; the pervasive consequences of alcohol and nicotine consumption; troublesome side-effects of legalization; plus the resilient nature of global drug production.
Links:
- The Drug Legalization Dilemma Washington Post
Research
Teen attitudes to drug/drink/text driving; important role for parents
A telephone survey for insurers found that their sample of 14-17 year old Americans regarded drink and drug driving as far more dangerous than driving while texting, despite evidence for the risks of all three. On the positive side, the drink/drug message is making an impact. Talking with parents was found to be a positive influence, but this declined for many during a young driver's first year when they are at highest risk of an accident.