Region's pupils are the worst for alcohol abuse
Jan 28 2010 by Phil Doherty, The Journal
CHILDREN in the region drink at least two bottles of wine a week and are more likely to consume alcohol and smoke than their peers in other areas of England and Wales.
The shocking figures from the NHS Information Centre show that youngsters aged 11 to 15, who do consume alcohol, drink on average the equivalent of two bottles of wine or almost eight pints of lager, and 42% had smoked at least once in their lives.
However, the research also found that they were the least likely in their age group to smoke cannabis.
Professor Stephen Singleton, medical director at NHS North East said: “We know that the North East has historically had high rates of smoking and alcohol consumption and although we are seeing these rates reducing year on year, these figures on the number of young people smoking and drinking in the region are a major concern.
“An alcohol and smoke-free lifestyle is by far the healthiest option, particularly for children, and it is vitally important that parents and carers guide young people appropriately so that they understand the health risks of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption and, most importantly, grow up to be responsible for their own health and wellbeing.
“The local NHS, together with colleagues at Balance - the North East alcohol office - and Fresh Smoke Free North East, is working hard to address these issues by focusing on measures to bring about lasting cultural and behavioural change.”
