SAVING LIVES: PREVENT AND REDUCE UNDERAGE DRINKING

Alcohol is the drug most frequently used by American teenagers. Young people drink alcohol more frequently than they use all other illicit drugs combined.

“Underage drinking is a critical public health issue in America,” states Todd Crum, Alcohol and Drug Prevention Supervisor of the Frederick County Health Department, Substance Abuse Division. Scientific research suggests that early use of alcohol by teenagers may contribute significantly to dependence on alcohol and other drugs later in life.

In 2004, The Maryland Adolescent Survey was administered to Frederick County students. Results of alcohol usage within the last 12 months among 8th, 10th and 12th graders in Frederick County is shown below.

SUBSTANCE / Grade
8TH / 10TH / 12TH
Used last 12 months / Used last 12 months / Used last 12 months
Beer, wine (other than for religious use,) or wine coolers / 21.3 / 38.9 / 59.7
Liquor (such as rum, vodka, or whiskey) / 14.6 / 35.3 / 54.2
Five or more servings of alcohol on the same occasion / 10.0 / 24.5 / 48.2

Alcohol consumption by college students is linked to al least 1,400 student deaths and 500,000unintentional injuries each year.

“Underage drinking is a complex problem, which can only be solved through a cooperative effort between parents, schools, community leaders, and the children themselves”, states Crum.

The Frederick County Health Department Substance Abuse Division offers a variety of prevention services for parents, youth and the community. Services are available for adolescents, adults, and families in need of treatment. For more information about the programs offered or for resources to address and curb underage drinking, contact the Frederick County Health Department at 301-600-3293 or visit http://www.co.frederick.md.us/index.asp?nid=2462.