WHO Report: Alarming Rates of Alcohol and E-Cigarette Use Among European Youth
The World Health Organization (WHO) released a report expressing concern over the widespread use of alcohol and e-cigarettes among adolescents in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada.
Based on survey data from 280,000 young people aged 11, 13, and 15, the WHO found the trend "alarming" and warned of the long-term consequences.
The organization recommended measures to limit access to these substances.
The report reveals that 57% of 15-year-olds have tried alcohol at least once, with 59% of girls and 56% of boys having done so.
The WHO noted a decrease in drinking among boys but an increase among girls.
Eight percent of 11-year-old boys and five percent of girls reported current use (drinking in the last 30 days).
However, by age 15, 38% of girls and 36% of boys reported current use.
The WHO expressed concern over the normalization of alcohol use and the need for stronger policies to protect children and young people from alcohol-related harm.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that nine percent of teenagers have experienced significant drunkenness, which is being drunk at least twice.
This rate increases from five percent among 13-year-olds to 20 percent for 15-year-olds, indicating a rising trend in alcohol abuse among youth.
The consequences of underage drinking can be costly.