Dangers of addiction for young people: Minister Drese sounds the alarm!

Dangers of addiction for young people: Minister Drese sounds the alarm!

In an urgent appeal, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Health Minister Stefanie Drese warned of the dangers of addiction, which pose a significant threat, especially to young people. According to n-tv, drugs - whether legal like alcohol and cigarettes or illegal like cannabis and synthetic drugs - are particularly dangerous for adolescents. Consumption is often perceived as “cool,” but it poses serious health risks.

Drese underlines the scientifically proven dangers associated with drug use. Their message is clear: “Awareness is key.” In order to achieve this goal, the state government relies, among other things, on educational initiatives and offering drug checking at festivals. For example, at the Fusion Festival at the former Soviet military airfield in Lärz, an anonymous substance analysis is carried out to inform participants about health risks and to identify dangerous substances.

Current trends in substance use

The latest WHO studies highlight worrying trends in substance use among young people in Europe, Central Asia and Canada. More than half of 15-year-olds say they have consumed alcohol. Specifically, 57% of respondents have ever tried alcohol, with 37% consuming alcohol within the last 30 days. The health challenges are exacerbated by the high prevalence of e-cigarettes: 32% of 15-year-olds smoke them, with 20% doing so in the last 30 days.

Another alarming result shows that although cannabis use among young people is declining slightly, 12% of 15-year-olds still said they had tried cannabis. The complicated thing is that the use of e-cigarettes is now more popular among young people than traditional cigarettes. This shows that the age group is experiencing some changes in consumer behavior, with significant long-term consequences that should not be underestimated.

Focus on prevention strategies

The dangers of addiction among young people are not only an issue in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, but also affect Europe as a whole. Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, Director of WHO Europe, makes it clear that targeted prevention strategies are urgently needed to reduce substance use. In addition to measures such as increasing excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco and banning advertising and sales promotions, stricter educational programs are also called for.

A current report from the Federal Center for Health Education highlights the need for preventative measures. Consumers should be made aware of the risks because, as dassuchtportal reports, an increasing number of young people are confronted with the health consequences of substance use. From brain damage caused by alcohol consumption to the long-term health risks associated with drugs, the message is clear: action is needed.

In summary: The risks of addiction are a serious issue that requires both education and preventive measures. Youth are the future – and it is up to us to protect them from these dangers.