Addressing the Growing Concern of Substance Abuse Among Adolescents: A Call to action against drug abuse

Abstract

Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, spanning the ages of
10 to 19. Adolescents experience rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes, which
influence their emotions, thoughts, and decision-making. Thus, it is a distinct period of
development and a crucial one for laying the foundations for long-term health(1)

. According to a survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Organisation, about
20 million children aged 10–14 are estimated to be tobacco users, with around 5500 new
users being added every day(2) Multiple factors facilitate the susceptibility of young people to substance abuse such as peer
pressure, family history, media influence, easy access, and mental health issues. Peer pressure
from friends was reported as the single most common reason for initiation among nicotine
users.(3)Regular drug use by teenagers is known to be associated with alterations in brain function
and diminished neurocognitive ability(4)

Prioritizing modifiable risk factors and strengthening protective
variables through family, school, and community preventive programs should be the focus of
these coordinated efforts toward early identification, awareness, and prevention initiatives(5)