Drug Abuse Among Children: A Startling Reality

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2025-12-12 14:00:33 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 23:35:12

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A recent study has unveiled a disturbing trend in India's major cities, revealing that the battle against drug abuse has reached a critical juncture. The research, published in the National Medical Journal of India, sheds light on the startling fact that 1 in 7 school-going children below 14.7 years of age have already experimented with substances like tobacco, alcohol, or cannabis. This statistic is not just a number; it represents a growing crisis that demands immediate attention.

The survey, conducted across ten diverse cities, including Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow, involved 5,920 students. Led by Dr Anju Dhawan of AIIMS Delhi, the study aimed to unravel the factors pushing children towards early substance use. The findings indicate that family and friends play a significant role in this alarming trend. Approximately 40% of the surveyed children witnessed tobacco or alcohol consumption within their families, making them more inclined to experiment. Peer pressure further exacerbates the issue, as children often mimic their friends or siblings without comprehending the long-term implications.

The implications of these findings are far-reaching. As the government strengthens its efforts to combat drug circulation, the study underscores the necessity of extending preventive measures to younger age groups. Experts advocate for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing the role of families in reducing substance use and providing emotional support. With cities like Bengaluru rapidly expanding, the challenge of safeguarding children from drug exposure becomes increasingly intricate.

Dr Dhawan's research serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing that addressing this crisis requires a unified front, involving families, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and the government. The study's impact extends beyond statistics, urging society to take proactive steps to protect its most vulnerable members from the perils of drug abuse.

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