A cautionary note Along with the encouraging results, the researchers also sounded a cautionary note in regard to teens’ use of marijuana and e-cigarettes.The study noted that marijuana use by teens use has remained relatively stable over the last decade, despite concern that wider availability and softening attitudes towards the drug would lead to increased use. However, marijuana use still remains high among teens, who may be vulnerable to the drug’s long-term, adverse effects on brain development. Six percent of high school seniors use marijuana daily or almost daily, which could have detrimental impacts on their current functioning and their future prospects. Also, surveys indicate increasing numbers of teens think marijuana use is not a health risk, indicating a lack of awareness of the harm it can do to the developing brain. The researchers also expressed concern that use of e-cigarettes remains high, with 9.5 percent of 8th graders, 14 percent of 10th graders, and 16.2 percent of 12th graders using these devices. While more information is needed on the health implications of e-cigarettes, the nicotine in many e-cigarette fluids can be addictive, and their vapor may contain other chemicals that might be harmful to the lungs.There is also concern that vaping may “re-normalize” smoking behavior and lead to traditional cigarette use among youth who start using e-cigarettes.
Teen substance use is still a problem In spite of the optimistic tone of the report, the researchers stress that the problems and consequences of adolescent substance use in America have not diminished. Far too many 8th, 10th and 12th graders continue to use drugs regularly or try them, possibly paving the way for substance use disorders, since adolescence is the period of greatest vulnerability for the brain changes underlying addiction. The researchers call for continued support of evidence-based prevention programs, training health care providers to identify and treat youth with substance use disorders, and empowering young people with the knowledge and resources to live healthy lives.
Non-medical use of prescription pain relievers was down significantly from five years ago and heroin use was at its lowest levels in the history of the survey—a positive note in the current opioid crisis that continues to strongly affect other age groups.
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