The widespread use of alcohol and e-cigarettes among adolescents is alarming. This is stated in a report published today by the World Health Organization, which recommends measures to limit access, reported AFP.
Based on a survey of data on 280,000 youth aged 11, 13 and 15 in 44 countries across Europe, Central Asia and Canada, the WHO said the report showed a “worrying picture” of substance use among young people.
“The long-term consequences of these trends are significant and those responsible cannot afford to ignore these alarming revelations,” the WHO said.
According to the report covering 2021-2022, 57% of 15-year-olds have consumed alcohol at least once (girls 59%, boys 56%).
The figures show a decline in smoking – 13% of 11-15 year olds smoked in 2022 – 2% less than four years earlier. But the report notes that many have adopted e-cigarettes, which have “taken over” teenagers compared to traditional cigarettes.
A decrease in the use of cannabis was also registered – 12% of 15-year-olds smoked at least once.
The WHO report also contains data on Bulgarian adolescents.
One fifth of 11-year-old Bulgarian boys have drunk alcohol at least once – according to this indicator, our country is in first place together with Moldova. For 13-year-old boys in Bulgaria, the share is already close to a third (32%).
The highest percentage of 15-year-olds who have used cannabis in the last 30 days is in Bulgaria – boys (19%), and in Canada – girls (15%)
Tags: report Widespread alcohol ecigarettes among adolescents alarming
