How Prevalent Is Alcohol and Drug Use Among Young People?
Among adolescents ages 12-17 years, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) 1999 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse: • 10.4 million were current drinkers; 6.8 engaged in binge drinking; and 2.1 million were heavy drinkers • 10.9% reported current use of illegal drugs • 7.7% were current users of marijuana • 14.9% smoke cigarettes currently Common Legal and Illegal Drugs Used by Young People • Alcohol: This includes beer, wine and hard liquor. It is a myth that beer is not alcohol. • Tobacco: Teens who smoke are three times more likely than nonsmokers to use alcohol, eight times more likely to use marijuana, and 22 times more likely to use cocaine. Smoking is associated with a host of other risky behaviors, such as fighting and engaging in unprotected sex. • Prescribed medications: Medications such as diet pills, pain medication, Ritalin, etc. • Inhalants: Inhaling the fumes of common household products, known by such street names as hu
