Increased drug use among old-for-grade adolescents

Article Abstract:

High school students who are older than their grade-level peers may be more likely to use drugs or exhibit risky drug-related behavior patterns. These students may have a negative effect on their younger classmates and may be an appropriate target for early intervention and drug prevention strategies. Researchers surveyed 1,387 students from 28 public high schools about their age, grade level, drug use, and drug-related behavior patterns. More than one third of the students (36%) were older than their grade-level peers. There was a significant association between 15 drug-related behaviors and being old for grade level. Students older than their grade-level peers accounted for more than half of the students reporting recently using or ever using crack, cocaine, marijuana, or injected drugs. These students were also more likely to take risks with alcohol including drinking excessively, driving while drinking, riding with a drunken driver, or drinking during sexual intercourse.

High school students, Demographic aspects, Smoking and youth, Youth smoking

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The role of community health centers in providing preventive care to adolescents

Article Abstract:

Poor adolescents may have rates of seeking preventive care from community health centers (CHCs) similar to those of adolescents receiving care from private sources. Researchers surveyed 6,635 adolescents in a national health survey about their source of health care and timing of preventive visits. Four percent of American adolescents received care from CHCs, with 11% of poor adolescents and 3% of more affluent adolescents receiving CHC care. Adolescents using CHCs were as likely as those using private health care sources to get routine checkups and immunizations at the right time. Adolescents using CHCs had poorer health than adolescents receiving private care, but no greater risk of having a chronic illness.

Care and treatment, Usage, Community health services, Poor

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Illicit substance use, gender, and the risk of violent behavior among adolescents

Article Abstract:

Female as well as male teenagers who abuse alcohol and illegal drugs may be more likely to carry weapons and engage in violent behavior. Researchers surveyed 12,272 U.S. high school students for information about drug and alcohol use, weapon carrying and fighting. Teens who carried weapons and who fought were more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs, including anabolic steroids. Twenty-seven percent of the teens said they carried a weapon in the last month. Females who abused substances were as likely to carry weapons and behave violently as males.

Social aspects, Teenagers, Youth, Substance abuse, Violence

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