AlenRiscos Observatory - Monitoring psychoactive substances consumption among 3rd cycle students in Alentejo region

Abstract

Objective: Worldwide, various studies have shown a worrying prevalence of tobacco, alcohol, and psychoactive substance use among young people, starting at an increasingly younger age. This scenario highlights the urgent need to deepen our understanding of this phenomenon and implement intervention strategies for this age group. In this context, the ALENRISCOS Observatory has emerged as a critical resource for analyzing and monitoring adolescent consumption patterns in the Alentejo region. Aim: This study aims to assess the prevalence and factors associated with tobacco, alcohol, and other psychoactive substance use among 7th and 9th-grade students in the Alentejo region. Methods: An observational study surveyed 12,767 students from public and private educational institutions from the “Ensino Básico” 3rd cycle. Data collection and subsequent analysis focused on tobacco, alcohol, and psychoactive substance use, providing a detailed examination of addictive behaviors in this population. Results: This study uncovered a decline in tobacco and alcohol use among adolescents in Alentejo, with a more significant decline in tobacco consumption from 19.5% in 2019/2020 to 12.2% in 2021/2022. This decline occurred simultaneously with the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown period, thus highlighting the significant role of the social environment. However, a noticeable increase in glue, varnish, and solvent consumption was observed, exceeding cannabis/hashish consumption. This fact underscores the urgent need to draw special attention to potentially harmful alternative consumption patterns among students. Conclusions: The results reinforce the demand for prevention and education strategies tailored to the needs of young people to reduce the prevalence of addictive behaviors and their adverse effects on long-term health. The need for early and targeted interventions is highlighted as a vital strategy for mitigating the risks associated with tobacco, alcohol, and psychoactive substance use among adolescents.