Survey Says More Youths Abusing Substances

Alcohol and inhalant abuse continue to be a major problem among young people, according to a 2006 survey conducted by the National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA).

Some 4,536 students ages 11 to 19 from 70 schools across Jamaica were surveyed in February. One hundred and ninety-two teachers attached to the selected schools also participated in the survey.

It was found that 71 per cent of students used alcohol, 27 per cent cigarettes and 28 per cent used solvents and inhalants. Additionally, while 24 per cent of students used marijuana, 14 per cent tried beady (nicotine and tar), six per cent used seasoned spliff (a combination of ganja and other narcotics) and three per cent used cocaine.

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