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The Adolescent Brain and Substance Use
February 27th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Adolescence is a unique period of growth characterized by major physiological, psychological, social, and brain changes. It is also a time when two harmful behaviors often emerge: substance use and risk taking. National surveys indicate that the prevalence of substance use increases markedly from early to late adolescence, peaking during the transition into young adulthood. Nearly 8% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 and 21% of 18- to 25-year-olds meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD). Adolescent brain development and advances in cognitive control do not occur in a straight...
February 27th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Adolescence is a unique period of growth characterized by major physiological, psychological, social, and brain changes. It is also a time when two harmful behaviors often emerge: substance use and risk taking. National surveys indicate that the prevalence of substance use increases markedly from early to late adolescence, peaking during the transition into young adulthood. Nearly 8% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 and 21% of 18- to 25-year-olds meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD). Adolescent brain development and advances in cognitive control do not occur in a straight...
Different Genes Appear to Influence Drinking Over Time
January 28th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
It is often thought that alcohol consumption is influenced by genetic factors. However, the degree to which genetics influences drinking continues to be an important area of research. Prior research on the heritability – meaning what you can inherit from your ancestors – of drinking as it progresses from adolescence into adulthood has found that “total” heritability changes over time. Yet it remains unclear if the same genes underlie a person’s liability to drinking across developmental stages, or if different genes influence risk for drinking over time. Researchers...
January 28th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
It is often thought that alcohol consumption is influenced by genetic factors. However, the degree to which genetics influences drinking continues to be an important area of research. Prior research on the heritability – meaning what you can inherit from your ancestors – of drinking as it progresses from adolescence into adulthood has found that “total” heritability changes over time. Yet it remains unclear if the same genes underlie a person’s liability to drinking across developmental stages, or if different genes influence risk for drinking over time. Researchers...
Psychiatric Nursing and High Risk College Drinking
January 28th, 2013 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent article in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing examines the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and dependence in college students and suggests implications for psychiatric nursing practice. The authors cite alarming facts: Excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 4,600 deaths in underage youth each year. Although 21 is the legal drinking age, 11% of the alcohol consumed in the United States is by adolescents ages 12 to 20. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2011) indicated that among full-time...
January 28th, 2013 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent article in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing examines the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and dependence in college students and suggests implications for psychiatric nursing practice. The authors cite alarming facts: Excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 4,600 deaths in underage youth each year. Although 21 is the legal drinking age, 11% of the alcohol consumed in the United States is by adolescents ages 12 to 20. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2011) indicated that among full-time...
Family Alcoholism History Linked with Mood/Anxiety Disorders
January 10th, 2013 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown that a family history (FH) of alcohol dependence (AD) not only increases the risk for AD, but is also associated with an increased risk for mood and anxiety disorders. However, it is unknown how a FH of AD affects neural substrates (functional units of the brain) in patients with mood and anxiety disorders. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), this European study examined the effects of an alcoholic FH on cognitive and emotional functions in mood/anxiety disorder patients. It is the first research to examine whether a FH of AD influences the functional...
January 10th, 2013 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown that a family history (FH) of alcohol dependence (AD) not only increases the risk for AD, but is also associated with an increased risk for mood and anxiety disorders. However, it is unknown how a FH of AD affects neural substrates (functional units of the brain) in patients with mood and anxiety disorders. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), this European study examined the effects of an alcoholic FH on cognitive and emotional functions in mood/anxiety disorder patients. It is the first research to examine whether a FH of AD influences the functional...
Family Environments Impact Drug Behavior
November 27th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Previous studies have shown that early family experiences have a large impact on children’s future behaviors, including substance use and other negative outcomes. As children establish their own families, they build upon the skills and practices they learned in their family of origin. Thus, both risk and protective factors from the family of origin affect levels of risk or protection in the family of cohabitation formed with a spouse or a romantic partner. Previous research has shown that alcohol and tobacco dependence are linked and are influenced by family environmental factors, both...
November 27th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Previous studies have shown that early family experiences have a large impact on children’s future behaviors, including substance use and other negative outcomes. As children establish their own families, they build upon the skills and practices they learned in their family of origin. Thus, both risk and protective factors from the family of origin affect levels of risk or protection in the family of cohabitation formed with a spouse or a romantic partner. Previous research has shown that alcohol and tobacco dependence are linked and are influenced by family environmental factors, both...
Prescription Drug Misuse in Young Adult Subcultures
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Negative health consequences have been associated with prescription drug misuse and increased rates of prescription drug misuse have contributed heavily to the treatment burden in the US. A quarter of a million people per year entered drug treatment programs between 2004 and 2006 for dependence on a prescription medication. In 2009, 2.6 million Americans misused a prescription drug for the first time, an average of more than 7,000 new misusers per day. Rates of prescription drug misuse are often highest among 18–25 year olds. About 6.3% of American 18–25 year olds report misusing a...
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Negative health consequences have been associated with prescription drug misuse and increased rates of prescription drug misuse have contributed heavily to the treatment burden in the US. A quarter of a million people per year entered drug treatment programs between 2004 and 2006 for dependence on a prescription medication. In 2009, 2.6 million Americans misused a prescription drug for the first time, an average of more than 7,000 new misusers per day. Rates of prescription drug misuse are often highest among 18–25 year olds. About 6.3% of American 18–25 year olds report misusing a...
Too Young to Drink, Too Young to Die
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Auto crashes are the leading cause of death among 16 year old youth. Every state has laws restricting those under 21 from driving with any measureable amount of alcohol. Yet teen drivers involved in fatal alcohol related crashes often have blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of 0.08% or above, the illegal limit for adult drivers. In 2011 one in ten high school students ages 16 and older reported drinking after driving in the last 30 days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed data from the 1991-2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) to determine the...
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Auto crashes are the leading cause of death among 16 year old youth. Every state has laws restricting those under 21 from driving with any measureable amount of alcohol. Yet teen drivers involved in fatal alcohol related crashes often have blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of 0.08% or above, the illegal limit for adult drivers. In 2011 one in ten high school students ages 16 and older reported drinking after driving in the last 30 days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed data from the 1991-2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) to determine the...
Drinking by Moms May Mean Bad Behavior Babies
September 26th, 2012 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
One in every eight women report consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Earlier studies have shown that prenatal alcohol consumption is associated with behavioral difficulties in children, including conduct and attention problems. Animal research has found that moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy is associated with irritability, attention problems, and poor neurological functioning in offspring. This study examined the effect of maternal alcohol use during pregnancy on infant behavioral outcomes and birth weight, and investigated differential susceptibility to these effects. The...
September 26th, 2012 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
One in every eight women report consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Earlier studies have shown that prenatal alcohol consumption is associated with behavioral difficulties in children, including conduct and attention problems. Animal research has found that moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy is associated with irritability, attention problems, and poor neurological functioning in offspring. This study examined the effect of maternal alcohol use during pregnancy on infant behavioral outcomes and birth weight, and investigated differential susceptibility to these effects. The...
Adolescent Pot Users Show Lasting IQ Drop
September 26th, 2012 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
This study was conducted in the context of broader research on the health and behavior of all the babies born in Dunedin, New Zealand in 1972-73. The data on 1037 individuals from birth to 38 years offered a unique opportunity to investigate the neuropsychological effects of persistent cannabis use. Participants were assessed via diagnostic interview at ages 18, 21, 26, 32, and 38 and grouped according to their number of dependence diagnoses: (1) never used, (2) reported use during at least one of the assessments but never diagnosed as dependent, (3) diagnosed as dependent at one...
September 26th, 2012 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
This study was conducted in the context of broader research on the health and behavior of all the babies born in Dunedin, New Zealand in 1972-73. The data on 1037 individuals from birth to 38 years offered a unique opportunity to investigate the neuropsychological effects of persistent cannabis use. Participants were assessed via diagnostic interview at ages 18, 21, 26, 32, and 38 and grouped according to their number of dependence diagnoses: (1) never used, (2) reported use during at least one of the assessments but never diagnosed as dependent, (3) diagnosed as dependent at one...
12-Step Attendance and Involvement Enhances Adolescent Recovery
September 4th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Experimentation with alcohol and other drugs typically begins during adolescence and, for a significant number of youths, escalates into severe problems. Adolescents who misuse substances to the point where they need treatment, often are faced with costly and limited options for youth-specific care, as well as the fact of high post-treatment relapse rates. Mutual-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, are less costly and generally provide a more available ongoing network of assistance. This study examined the degree to which adolescents currently attend...
September 4th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Experimentation with alcohol and other drugs typically begins during adolescence and, for a significant number of youths, escalates into severe problems. Adolescents who misuse substances to the point where they need treatment, often are faced with costly and limited options for youth-specific care, as well as the fact of high post-treatment relapse rates. Mutual-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, are less costly and generally provide a more available ongoing network of assistance. This study examined the degree to which adolescents currently attend...
Which Students Will Drive After Drinking?
August 30th, 2012 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
Driving after drinking (DAD) is a high-risk behavior among college students and a leading cause of death and injury. Approximately 16-30% of U.S. college students report DAD. Significant evidence has demonstrated that the perception of how others behave (descriptive norms) and how accepting or approving others are of certain behaviors (injunctive norms) can exert considerable influence on that behavior. This study evaluated demographic, social, and behavioral norms as predictors of student DAD. The researchers twice surveyed 655 non-abstaining students (67% female, mean age 19.3...
August 30th, 2012 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
Driving after drinking (DAD) is a high-risk behavior among college students and a leading cause of death and injury. Approximately 16-30% of U.S. college students report DAD. Significant evidence has demonstrated that the perception of how others behave (descriptive norms) and how accepting or approving others are of certain behaviors (injunctive norms) can exert considerable influence on that behavior. This study evaluated demographic, social, and behavioral norms as predictors of student DAD. The researchers twice surveyed 655 non-abstaining students (67% female, mean age 19.3...
Which Drug is the Gateway Drug?
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway drug theory” suggests that legal drugs such as tobacco and alcohol operate as gateways to the use of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, there is still debate as to which drug – tobacco, alcohol, or even marijuana – is first in the procession that leads to more harmful and illegal drugs. This study in the Journal of School Health sought to determine which drug is the actual gateway drug and if licit drug use predicts later illicit drug use. The researchers analyzed data about the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs by young adults (14,600 12 th...
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway drug theory” suggests that legal drugs such as tobacco and alcohol operate as gateways to the use of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, there is still debate as to which drug – tobacco, alcohol, or even marijuana – is first in the procession that leads to more harmful and illegal drugs. This study in the Journal of School Health sought to determine which drug is the actual gateway drug and if licit drug use predicts later illicit drug use. The researchers analyzed data about the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs by young adults (14,600 12 th...
More Clues to the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Legacy
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
More than 8.3 million children under 18 years of age (11.9%) live with at least one parent who was dependent on or abused alcohol or an illicit drug during the past year. There is an extensive research literature linking parental substance use disorder (SUD) to an increased risk of SUD in their children as adults. However, few studies have looked at whether parental treatment for or recovery from drug problems reduces the risk of their child later developing an SUD. A recent study analyzed data from a national survey that identified persons aged 15–54 years who were living in...
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
More than 8.3 million children under 18 years of age (11.9%) live with at least one parent who was dependent on or abused alcohol or an illicit drug during the past year. There is an extensive research literature linking parental substance use disorder (SUD) to an increased risk of SUD in their children as adults. However, few studies have looked at whether parental treatment for or recovery from drug problems reduces the risk of their child later developing an SUD. A recent study analyzed data from a national survey that identified persons aged 15–54 years who were living in...
Parents Do Matter
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Preventing harmful substance use and early intervention are critical to keeping youth healthy and successful. Parents are a key to prevention since parenting practices and perceptions about substance use can produce either a risky or protective environment for their children. The Partnership at Drugfree.org developed Parents: You Matter (PYM) to teach parents of 12- to 17-year-olds about substance use, and to provide them with tools and resources to prevent substance use or, if necessary, to intervene if harmful use occurs. This report in Community Science assessed the effectiveness of...
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Preventing harmful substance use and early intervention are critical to keeping youth healthy and successful. Parents are a key to prevention since parenting practices and perceptions about substance use can produce either a risky or protective environment for their children. The Partnership at Drugfree.org developed Parents: You Matter (PYM) to teach parents of 12- to 17-year-olds about substance use, and to provide them with tools and resources to prevent substance use or, if necessary, to intervene if harmful use occurs. This report in Community Science assessed the effectiveness of...
Are 12-Step Meetings Safe for Youth?
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Results from a number of studies have shown that participation in 12-step mutual help groups (MHG) by young people, especially those with more severe substance use problems, produces benefits at clinically meaningful levels. One such study found that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) participation during the first 3 months of treatment resulted in an increase in days abstinent both concurrently and at a 6-month follow-up. Yet, despite numerous studies showing recovery-related benefits, there are persistent anecdotal concerns about the safety of these predominantly adult...
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Results from a number of studies have shown that participation in 12-step mutual help groups (MHG) by young people, especially those with more severe substance use problems, produces benefits at clinically meaningful levels. One such study found that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) participation during the first 3 months of treatment resulted in an increase in days abstinent both concurrently and at a 6-month follow-up. Yet, despite numerous studies showing recovery-related benefits, there are persistent anecdotal concerns about the safety of these predominantly adult...
Prevention Science Expanding Worldwide
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Due in part to the worldwide investment and success in child health care more children are surviving into adolescence. The worldwide burden of disease has shifted to non-communicable diseases and behavior problems. Unsafe driving, mental health (self-inflicted injuries), and violence are now the three leading causes of adolescent mortality. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse are implicated in those three leading causes as well as carrying their own harmful effects into adulthood. Sexually-transmitted infections (STI), HIV (AIDS virus) and teen pregnancy with maternal hemorrhage and...
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Due in part to the worldwide investment and success in child health care more children are surviving into adolescence. The worldwide burden of disease has shifted to non-communicable diseases and behavior problems. Unsafe driving, mental health (self-inflicted injuries), and violence are now the three leading causes of adolescent mortality. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse are implicated in those three leading causes as well as carrying their own harmful effects into adulthood. Sexually-transmitted infections (STI), HIV (AIDS virus) and teen pregnancy with maternal hemorrhage and...
Some Colleges Outscore Others in Prevention Policies
April 23rd, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
University of Minnesota researchers surveyed four year colleges, collecting data on their alcohol policies and practices. The objective was to inventory and analyze alcohol prevention efforts across the various sizes and types of U.S. colleges. Initially 2482 colleges with residential campuses that offered several majors were identified. A weighted procedure was used that sampled colleges in proportion to student enrollment. The final selection of 569 included 100 small private, 100 small public, 101 large private, and 268 large public colleges. Through telephone queries of an official...
April 23rd, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
University of Minnesota researchers surveyed four year colleges, collecting data on their alcohol policies and practices. The objective was to inventory and analyze alcohol prevention efforts across the various sizes and types of U.S. colleges. Initially 2482 colleges with residential campuses that offered several majors were identified. A weighted procedure was used that sampled colleges in proportion to student enrollment. The final selection of 569 included 100 small private, 100 small public, 101 large private, and 268 large public colleges. Through telephone queries of an official...
Clues to Adolescents at Risk for Alcohol Dependence
December 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Current data show that drinking usually begins in the teen years. By 12th grade 86% have consumed alcohol and 55% have had at least one drink in the last 30 days. Previous research also indicates that many teen drinkers experience some signs of alcohol dependence without a prior diagnosis of alcohol abuse. Further studies have shown that an early age of drinking onset (14 and under) considerably increases the likelihood of experiencing alcohol dependence in adulthood. This current study at Wesleyan University sought to assess the prevalence of alcohol dependence diagnosis in a...
December 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Current data show that drinking usually begins in the teen years. By 12th grade 86% have consumed alcohol and 55% have had at least one drink in the last 30 days. Previous research also indicates that many teen drinkers experience some signs of alcohol dependence without a prior diagnosis of alcohol abuse. Further studies have shown that an early age of drinking onset (14 and under) considerably increases the likelihood of experiencing alcohol dependence in adulthood. This current study at Wesleyan University sought to assess the prevalence of alcohol dependence diagnosis in a...
Parents and Peers Influence College Marijuana Use
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
Do Parents Know Best?
September 1st, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
Researchers at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles examined the questions, “Do parents accurately perceive the attitudes of other parents about their college students’ use of alcohol?” and, “What is the effect of these perceptions on the alcohol related attitudes of their own college student’s drinking?” Recent research indicated that parents still have significant impact on their college student’s alcohol use. Parental influences such as permissiveness or parental monitoring were found to impact alcohol use. It had also been shown that parental disapproval of...
September 1st, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
Researchers at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles examined the questions, “Do parents accurately perceive the attitudes of other parents about their college students’ use of alcohol?” and, “What is the effect of these perceptions on the alcohol related attitudes of their own college student’s drinking?” Recent research indicated that parents still have significant impact on their college student’s alcohol use. Parental influences such as permissiveness or parental monitoring were found to impact alcohol use. It had also been shown that parental disapproval of...
AA and NA for Teens
September 1st, 2011 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Only 10% of the estimated 1.4 million teens with an alcohol or drug problem are receiving treatment, compared to 20% of adults. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA) are now deemed an effective adjunct to substance abuse treatment for adults. However, little is known about the effectiveness of these programs for teens. This review article looks at teen involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), and at studies of formal teen treatment programs that used an AA/NA model. The article also provides data on the effects of AA/NA attendance on abstinence,...
September 1st, 2011 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Only 10% of the estimated 1.4 million teens with an alcohol or drug problem are receiving treatment, compared to 20% of adults. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA) are now deemed an effective adjunct to substance abuse treatment for adults. However, little is known about the effectiveness of these programs for teens. This review article looks at teen involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), and at studies of formal teen treatment programs that used an AA/NA model. The article also provides data on the effects of AA/NA attendance on abstinence,...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Predicts Later Substance-Use Disorders (SUDs)
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are thought to have roots in childhood. According to this recent Massachusetts General Hospital study, psychiatric disorders have been observed in up to 85% of adolescents with SUDs. Previous research has shown that childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adolescence in 75% of cases. However, long-term research on predictors of SUD in children with ADHD has been limited. This study’s aims were to identify “clinically meaningful characteristics of children that predicted the future development of SUDs and to see...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are thought to have roots in childhood. According to this recent Massachusetts General Hospital study, psychiatric disorders have been observed in up to 85% of adolescents with SUDs. Previous research has shown that childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adolescence in 75% of cases. However, long-term research on predictors of SUD in children with ADHD has been limited. This study’s aims were to identify “clinically meaningful characteristics of children that predicted the future development of SUDs and to see...
Medical Marijuana Diverted to Adolescents
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
Parent Incentive Program Reduces Problems of Kids
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), 13.6% of all children ages 3-5 live in a home where one or more parents have a past year diagnosis of drug abuse or dependence. Parental drug abuse increases risk of conduct problems in their children. The pre-school period and transition to elementary school is particularly important because that is when the onset of life-course-persistent problems occurs. This innovative study at the Center for Addiction Research, the University of Arkansas, consisting of homework, class sessions, and a novel...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), 13.6% of all children ages 3-5 live in a home where one or more parents have a past year diagnosis of drug abuse or dependence. Parental drug abuse increases risk of conduct problems in their children. The pre-school period and transition to elementary school is particularly important because that is when the onset of life-course-persistent problems occurs. This innovative study at the Center for Addiction Research, the University of Arkansas, consisting of homework, class sessions, and a novel...
Women Only versus Mixed Group Treatment
June 2nd, 2011 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Five percent of US pregnant women use illicit drugs. Substance-abusing pregnant and/or parenting women have great need for medical, mental health, and other social support services. Studies show that, compared with substance-abusing men, women are more likely to have psychiatric problems, lower self-esteem, and histories of traumatic abuse events. Most of these women have limited education, are unemployed, and rely on public assistance and/or crime as sources of income. Treatment can change their lives by promoting family unification and long-term recovery. This UCLA study looked at...
June 2nd, 2011 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Five percent of US pregnant women use illicit drugs. Substance-abusing pregnant and/or parenting women have great need for medical, mental health, and other social support services. Studies show that, compared with substance-abusing men, women are more likely to have psychiatric problems, lower self-esteem, and histories of traumatic abuse events. Most of these women have limited education, are unemployed, and rely on public assistance and/or crime as sources of income. Treatment can change their lives by promoting family unification and long-term recovery. This UCLA study looked at...
High School Pregaming: an indicator of wider hazardous alcohol use
June 2nd, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Pregaming is an urban slang term that has found its way into the mainstream vernacular. Pregaming is the practice of drinking alcohol prior to attending parties, sporting events or social gatherings. There have been studies of this practice in the college setting but little is known about the prevalence of this behavior in high school students. This study examined how gender, age, alcohol expectancies, motivations for drinking, and engagement in other risky alcohol use were associated with high school pregaming. The prevalence of this behavior was derived from a parent approved...
June 2nd, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Pregaming is an urban slang term that has found its way into the mainstream vernacular. Pregaming is the practice of drinking alcohol prior to attending parties, sporting events or social gatherings. There have been studies of this practice in the college setting but little is known about the prevalence of this behavior in high school students. This study examined how gender, age, alcohol expectancies, motivations for drinking, and engagement in other risky alcohol use were associated with high school pregaming. The prevalence of this behavior was derived from a parent approved...
U.S. Youth Switching to the Hard Stuff
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
Tailgating Proves Dangerous
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Of historical interest, the practice of partying before events (tailgating) is associated with American football but it traces its origins to the 1861 Civil war Battle of Bull Run. Supporters of the Union showed up in their wagons with baskets of food and enthusiastically cheered for the Union soldiers. This modern day study measured alcohol consumption by students and non-students tailgating prior to football games at one southeastern university (School 1) and one Midwestern university (School 2). Approximately 75 % of those approached agreed to participate. Researchers did not...
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Of historical interest, the practice of partying before events (tailgating) is associated with American football but it traces its origins to the 1861 Civil war Battle of Bull Run. Supporters of the Union showed up in their wagons with baskets of food and enthusiastically cheered for the Union soldiers. This modern day study measured alcohol consumption by students and non-students tailgating prior to football games at one southeastern university (School 1) and one Midwestern university (School 2). Approximately 75 % of those approached agreed to participate. Researchers did not...
Parental and Adolescent Drinking are Steps on the Path to Psychological Problems
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Parents’ use of alcohol is a recognized factor in alcohol use and dependence in their offspring. Current estimates are that 40-60% of alcohol dependence can be attributed to genetics. The remaining risk factors include an individual’s family background, socialization, and psychological makeup. There is a known relationship between alcohol use and depression and anxiety disorders. This New York University School of Medicine study looked for a possible pathway from parental use of alcohol during their child’s adolescence and the appearance of psychological symptoms in young...
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Parents’ use of alcohol is a recognized factor in alcohol use and dependence in their offspring. Current estimates are that 40-60% of alcohol dependence can be attributed to genetics. The remaining risk factors include an individual’s family background, socialization, and psychological makeup. There is a known relationship between alcohol use and depression and anxiety disorders. This New York University School of Medicine study looked for a possible pathway from parental use of alcohol during their child’s adolescence and the appearance of psychological symptoms in young...
Baby Boomers Bring Drug Use Challenges
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The number of 50+ year-old Americans with a substance use disorder is expected to reach 5.7 million by 2020. A recent report by Duke University Medical Center researchers reviews epidemiological findings focused on illicit drug use disorders and nonmedical use of prescription drugs by older adults. Alcohol abuse and dependence are excluded in order to isolate the “hidden” emerging problem of drug use in the over-50 population. The review states that the number of adults age 50 to 59 is growing, as large numbers of baby boomers reach 50 years or older. Surveys show that this “baby...
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The number of 50+ year-old Americans with a substance use disorder is expected to reach 5.7 million by 2020. A recent report by Duke University Medical Center researchers reviews epidemiological findings focused on illicit drug use disorders and nonmedical use of prescription drugs by older adults. Alcohol abuse and dependence are excluded in order to isolate the “hidden” emerging problem of drug use in the over-50 population. The review states that the number of adults age 50 to 59 is growing, as large numbers of baby boomers reach 50 years or older. Surveys show that this “baby...
Preventing Fetal Alcohol Disorders
March 3rd, 2011 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is a teratogen (a substance capable of interfering with the development of organ systems, including the central nervous system). Alcohol use by pregnant women 18-44 years old is a leading cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities in the US. Yet, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are entirely preventable as long as pregnant women do not drink alcohol. According to this recent report sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol use prior to pregnancy is a strong predictor of use during pregnancy. Previously reported data...
March 3rd, 2011 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is a teratogen (a substance capable of interfering with the development of organ systems, including the central nervous system). Alcohol use by pregnant women 18-44 years old is a leading cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities in the US. Yet, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are entirely preventable as long as pregnant women do not drink alcohol. According to this recent report sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol use prior to pregnancy is a strong predictor of use during pregnancy. Previously reported data...
Evidence-Based Prevention Programs for Schools
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
Substance Use among Early Adolescent Girls
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
Higher Socioeconomic Status May Lead to Early Adult Drug Problems
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
This recent University of Chicago study looked at the relationship between the socioeconomic status (SES) of adolescents and their substance use in early adulthood. Much of the earlier research in this area focused on substance abuse in lower SES populations. However, growing evidence shows that teens from high SES backgrounds are also at high risk. This study analyzed the relationship between adolescent SES (measured by parental education and income) and their adult substance use. The data came from The National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health (AddHealth) a nationally...
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
This recent University of Chicago study looked at the relationship between the socioeconomic status (SES) of adolescents and their substance use in early adulthood. Much of the earlier research in this area focused on substance abuse in lower SES populations. However, growing evidence shows that teens from high SES backgrounds are also at high risk. This study analyzed the relationship between adolescent SES (measured by parental education and income) and their adult substance use. The data came from The National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health (AddHealth) a nationally...
Effectiveness of High School Substance Use Prevention Programs
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys show that initiation of teen substance use increases rapidly during middle and high school grades. This study points to a lack of evidence-based drug prevention programs in high schools. Researchers identified eight prevention programs recognized as evidence-based and classified as “model” or effective” based on the following criteria: (1) they target substance use; (2) they are intended for all students; (3) they are designed for use in high school; and (4) they are classified as effective by either the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or...
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys show that initiation of teen substance use increases rapidly during middle and high school grades. This study points to a lack of evidence-based drug prevention programs in high schools. Researchers identified eight prevention programs recognized as evidence-based and classified as “model” or effective” based on the following criteria: (1) they target substance use; (2) they are intended for all students; (3) they are designed for use in high school; and (4) they are classified as effective by either the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or...
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Marijuana Interactions
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
Parental Movie Restrictions and Youth Alcohol Use
December 2nd, 2010 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Research has linked entertainment media with aggressive behavior, smoking, and sexual behavior. But less is known about the relationship between movies and alcohol use. This Dartmouth Medical School study looked at how parental restrictions on R-movie viewing influenced the risk of early-onset alcohol use. Participants were 3577 New England middle school youths (grades 5-8) who had reported never drinking. The question was asked, “How often do your parents let you watch R-rated movies or videos?” Follow-up was conducted 13-36 months later using a computer assisted telephone...
December 2nd, 2010 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Research has linked entertainment media with aggressive behavior, smoking, and sexual behavior. But less is known about the relationship between movies and alcohol use. This Dartmouth Medical School study looked at how parental restrictions on R-movie viewing influenced the risk of early-onset alcohol use. Participants were 3577 New England middle school youths (grades 5-8) who had reported never drinking. The question was asked, “How often do your parents let you watch R-rated movies or videos?” Follow-up was conducted 13-36 months later using a computer assisted telephone...
Gender Effects on Drug Disorders
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
A 25 Year Study of Alcoholism in Middle Age Men
November 11th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Drinking patterns and alcohol problems change with age but few studies have spanned the history of an individual’s alcohol use and/or alcohol use disorders (AUD) from early adulthood to middle age. An AUD at any age points to recurring alcohol problems and risks for illness and early death. Thus it is useful to understand the predictors of such problems. A long running study by the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego reports results of their 25 year observation of AUDs observed in 373 relatively well educated Caucasian men originally recruited between 1978...
November 11th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Drinking patterns and alcohol problems change with age but few studies have spanned the history of an individual’s alcohol use and/or alcohol use disorders (AUD) from early adulthood to middle age. An AUD at any age points to recurring alcohol problems and risks for illness and early death. Thus it is useful to understand the predictors of such problems. A long running study by the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego reports results of their 25 year observation of AUDs observed in 373 relatively well educated Caucasian men originally recruited between 1978...
How Children Perceive Alcohol Use Risks
November 11th, 2010 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by University of Maryland researchers looked at the difference between children's self-perceptions of their risk of alcohol use versus their perceptions of risk of alcohol use for other children, and whether these discrepancies predicted children's future alcohol use. They cite research indicating that 58% of U.S. children have had at least minimal experience with alcohol before the age of 12 years and that recent evidence shows those children’s perceptions about alcohol risk is a predictor of early-onset alcohol use. This study examined 277 children ages 9 to 13...
November 11th, 2010 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by University of Maryland researchers looked at the difference between children's self-perceptions of their risk of alcohol use versus their perceptions of risk of alcohol use for other children, and whether these discrepancies predicted children's future alcohol use. They cite research indicating that 58% of U.S. children have had at least minimal experience with alcohol before the age of 12 years and that recent evidence shows those children’s perceptions about alcohol risk is a predictor of early-onset alcohol use. This study examined 277 children ages 9 to 13...
Does Availability Increase Teen Drinking?
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Restricting access to alcohol is thought to reduce underage drinking. Community policies such as strict enforcement of underage drinking laws and responsible beverage server training have proven effective. Research has also shown an association between geographic availability of alcohol and consumption. A recent study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation examined whether the frequently advocated strategy of limiting the number or density of alcohol purveyors in a neighborhood further reduces underage drinking. The study focused on adolescents from 50 California zip...
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Restricting access to alcohol is thought to reduce underage drinking. Community policies such as strict enforcement of underage drinking laws and responsible beverage server training have proven effective. Research has also shown an association between geographic availability of alcohol and consumption. A recent study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation examined whether the frequently advocated strategy of limiting the number or density of alcohol purveyors in a neighborhood further reduces underage drinking. The study focused on adolescents from 50 California zip...
Brief Intervention Cuts Alcohol – Related Teen Violence
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In 2006 there were nearly 20,000 emergency department (ED) visits by patients aged 15 to 24 years. These ED visits are an opportunity for intervention efforts to reach adolescents not attending school, who lack a primary care MD, or who are otherwise outside mainstream medical care. A recent study conducted at the Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Michigan looked at whether therapist and computer interventions could be effective in reducing adolescent violence and alcohol misuse. Over a 3-year period (2006-2009) 3,338 patients 14-18 years old completed a 15-minute computerized survey....
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In 2006 there were nearly 20,000 emergency department (ED) visits by patients aged 15 to 24 years. These ED visits are an opportunity for intervention efforts to reach adolescents not attending school, who lack a primary care MD, or who are otherwise outside mainstream medical care. A recent study conducted at the Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Michigan looked at whether therapist and computer interventions could be effective in reducing adolescent violence and alcohol misuse. Over a 3-year period (2006-2009) 3,338 patients 14-18 years old completed a 15-minute computerized survey....
A Genetic Clue to Adolescent Alcohol Use
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
AOD Treatment Reduces Family Medical Costs
August 19th, 2010 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use disorders are among the most prevalent chronic illnesses. Family members of individuals with alcohol and other drug (AOD) disorders have higher medical costs than those with other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and asthma and have more medical and psychiatric conditions than families without AOD disorders. Past studies provided evidence of reduced family medical costs following AOD treatment but most were based on alcohol-based treatment, did not match patients or families with non-AOD affected families (controls), or consider the AOD patient's treatment...
August 19th, 2010 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use disorders are among the most prevalent chronic illnesses. Family members of individuals with alcohol and other drug (AOD) disorders have higher medical costs than those with other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and asthma and have more medical and psychiatric conditions than families without AOD disorders. Past studies provided evidence of reduced family medical costs following AOD treatment but most were based on alcohol-based treatment, did not match patients or families with non-AOD affected families (controls), or consider the AOD patient's treatment...
AA and NA Help Teens
August 16th, 2010 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
August 16th, 2010 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
The Down Side to Energy Drinks
July 9th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Since their introduction in 1987, the energy drink market has grown exponentially. The main ingredient of energy drinks is caffeine. For comparison, the caffeine content in a 6 oz. cup of coffee varies from 77 to 150 milligrams, while in energy drinks caffeine can range from 50 to 500 mgs per can or bottle. Energy drinks, depending on the brand, may also contain substances such as taurine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, nicotinamide, B vitamins, and various herbal derivatives. The effects of excessive and long-term use of these additives alone and in combination with caffeine are not fully...
July 9th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Since their introduction in 1987, the energy drink market has grown exponentially. The main ingredient of energy drinks is caffeine. For comparison, the caffeine content in a 6 oz. cup of coffee varies from 77 to 150 milligrams, while in energy drinks caffeine can range from 50 to 500 mgs per can or bottle. Energy drinks, depending on the brand, may also contain substances such as taurine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, nicotinamide, B vitamins, and various herbal derivatives. The effects of excessive and long-term use of these additives alone and in combination with caffeine are not fully...
Alcohol, Autos, and College – A High Risk Combo
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
Youth Saying No to Marijuana
June 8th, 2010 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
A significant percentage of recent marijuana using high school seniors wish to reduce or stop their use. This conclusion is based on analysis of data collected by the Monitoring the Future Study (MFS), an ongoing study of the behaviors, attitudes, and values of American secondary school students, college students, and young adults. Each year, a total of approximately 50,000 8th, 10th and 12th grade students are surveyed (might want to explain why no 9 th grade data). The MFS is conducted by the Survey Research Center in the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan...
June 8th, 2010 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
A significant percentage of recent marijuana using high school seniors wish to reduce or stop their use. This conclusion is based on analysis of data collected by the Monitoring the Future Study (MFS), an ongoing study of the behaviors, attitudes, and values of American secondary school students, college students, and young adults. Each year, a total of approximately 50,000 8th, 10th and 12th grade students are surveyed (might want to explain why no 9 th grade data). The MFS is conducted by the Survey Research Center in the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan...
AA and NA Help Teens
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
Pro Sports Stadiums Likely to Sell Alcohol to Intoxicated and Underage Patrons
January 31st, 2009 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
While “tail-gating parties” and “throwing back a few at the game” are traditions for many sports fans, the reality is that drinking alcohol before, during and/or after sporting events can increase the chances of traffic accidents and injuries before, during, and after professional sporting events. Illegal alcohol sales at these events may be one contributing factor to such alcohol-related incidents. This first-of-its-kind study looked at the likelihood of alcohol sales to underage youth and intoxicated patrons at professional sports stadiums across the U.S., and what factors may...
January 31st, 2009 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
While “tail-gating parties” and “throwing back a few at the game” are traditions for many sports fans, the reality is that drinking alcohol before, during and/or after sporting events can increase the chances of traffic accidents and injuries before, during, and after professional sporting events. Illegal alcohol sales at these events may be one contributing factor to such alcohol-related incidents. This first-of-its-kind study looked at the likelihood of alcohol sales to underage youth and intoxicated patrons at professional sports stadiums across the U.S., and what factors may...
Amphetamine-related Heart Attacks Increase in Lone Star State
October 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse is a global problem, with estimates of 35 million people worldwide abusing amphetamine-type stimulants in 2004. Closer to home, the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported 19.1 million Americans had used an illicit or prescription-type stimulant non-medically at least once in their lifetimes. Reports in 2007 indicate that methamphetamine abuse may be on the increase in some major metropolitan U.S. cities. While cocaine is recognized as a contributor to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) no population-based studies have looked at an association between...
October 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse is a global problem, with estimates of 35 million people worldwide abusing amphetamine-type stimulants in 2004. Closer to home, the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported 19.1 million Americans had used an illicit or prescription-type stimulant non-medically at least once in their lifetimes. Reports in 2007 indicate that methamphetamine abuse may be on the increase in some major metropolitan U.S. cities. While cocaine is recognized as a contributor to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) no population-based studies have looked at an association between...
The Genetics of Alcoholism
October 31st, 2008 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown conclusively that family alcoholism risk is in part genetic and not just the result of family environment. Studies in recent years have confirmed that identical twins, who share the same genes, are about twice as likely as fraternal twins – who share on average 50 percent of their genes – to resemble each other in their risk of alcoholism. Recent research also reports that 50 to 60 percent of the risk for alcoholism is genetically determined, for both men and women. Genes alone do not preordain that someone will be alcoholic; features in the environment along with...
October 31st, 2008 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown conclusively that family alcoholism risk is in part genetic and not just the result of family environment. Studies in recent years have confirmed that identical twins, who share the same genes, are about twice as likely as fraternal twins – who share on average 50 percent of their genes – to resemble each other in their risk of alcoholism. Recent research also reports that 50 to 60 percent of the risk for alcoholism is genetically determined, for both men and women. Genes alone do not preordain that someone will be alcoholic; features in the environment along with...
Genes Influence Early Drinking
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
Impaired Youth Behind the Wheel Is a Widespread Problem
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Auto accidents are a leading cause of death among teens and young adults. A substantial number of these fatalities result from driving after drinking or using drugs. Efforts to reduce driving after drinking have met some success but little is known about the extent of youth driving after use of marijuana or other illicit drugs. The National Study on Drug Use and Health reported in 2002 that 15%-18% of persons 18-21 years old drove after drinking or using illicit drugs in the previous year. Clearly a considerable amount of driving after illicit drug use is occurring. However, little is known...
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Auto accidents are a leading cause of death among teens and young adults. A substantial number of these fatalities result from driving after drinking or using drugs. Efforts to reduce driving after drinking have met some success but little is known about the extent of youth driving after use of marijuana or other illicit drugs. The National Study on Drug Use and Health reported in 2002 that 15%-18% of persons 18-21 years old drove after drinking or using illicit drugs in the previous year. Clearly a considerable amount of driving after illicit drug use is occurring. However, little is known...
Good News for Senior Alcoholics
April 30th, 2008 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Much is known about the damaging effects of alcoholism on the cognitive (thinking) function of the brain. There is also a growing body of knowledge on how much recovery occurs with abstinence. However, there is little research available on cognitive functioning in very long term abstinent alcoholics, especially the elderly. This research examined 91 elderly abstinent alcoholics (EAA) (49 men and 42 women) with an average age of 67.3 years and who were abstinent for an average of 14.8 years. They were compared to a comparable light/non-drinking control group. The EAA group was divided...
April 30th, 2008 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Much is known about the damaging effects of alcoholism on the cognitive (thinking) function of the brain. There is also a growing body of knowledge on how much recovery occurs with abstinence. However, there is little research available on cognitive functioning in very long term abstinent alcoholics, especially the elderly. This research examined 91 elderly abstinent alcoholics (EAA) (49 men and 42 women) with an average age of 67.3 years and who were abstinent for an average of 14.8 years. They were compared to a comparable light/non-drinking control group. The EAA group was divided...
Sacramento SNAPP Program Pays Off
August 31st, 2007 / Community Programs / Betty Ford Institute
Most alcohol-prevention projects are large, community-wide efforts with the intent of reducing alcohol-related problems such as assaults, automobile accidents, and other injuries. While these programs are effective in communities at large, certain neighborhoods within a larger community may benefit from more targeted strategies. For example, prior studies have shown that neighborhoods with a high density of alcohol outlets have more alcohol-related problems such as violence and drunk driving. Thus prevention efforts on the neighborhood level would benefit not only the neighborhood, but the...
August 31st, 2007 / Community Programs / Betty Ford Institute
Most alcohol-prevention projects are large, community-wide efforts with the intent of reducing alcohol-related problems such as assaults, automobile accidents, and other injuries. While these programs are effective in communities at large, certain neighborhoods within a larger community may benefit from more targeted strategies. For example, prior studies have shown that neighborhoods with a high density of alcohol outlets have more alcohol-related problems such as violence and drunk driving. Thus prevention efforts on the neighborhood level would benefit not only the neighborhood, but the...
Where There Is Smoke
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
The Neighborhood Can Be a Gateway to Drugs
April 30th, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway hypothesis” is the theory that using drugs of abuse likely progresses through several discrete stages. For example, consumption of beer or wine may lead to hard liquor; use of tobacco may lead to marijuana and then harder drugs. This study examined the accuracy of the gateway hypothesis and sequencing as they pertain to use of tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. It also investigated if any transitions are determined by particular risk factors. Researchers examined three groups of males from ages 10/12 to 22 years of age: those who consumed licit (legal) drugs only (n=99);...
April 30th, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway hypothesis” is the theory that using drugs of abuse likely progresses through several discrete stages. For example, consumption of beer or wine may lead to hard liquor; use of tobacco may lead to marijuana and then harder drugs. This study examined the accuracy of the gateway hypothesis and sequencing as they pertain to use of tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. It also investigated if any transitions are determined by particular risk factors. Researchers examined three groups of males from ages 10/12 to 22 years of age: those who consumed licit (legal) drugs only (n=99);...
Pregnant Mom’s Drinking May Cause Psychiatric Disorders in Offspring
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to alcohol causes birth defects, as well as abnormal development in attention and memory, executive functioning, motor skills, learning, and judgment. This study examined how psychiatric problems might also be linked to prenatal alcohol exposure. Beginning with a longitudinal study of 1,529 pregnant women, researchers chose a group of 500 newborns who were most heavily exposed to alcohol, plus a sampling of newborns with exposures varying from total abstinence to heavy drinking. Years later, at an average age of 25.7 years, 400 members of the newborn group were...
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to alcohol causes birth defects, as well as abnormal development in attention and memory, executive functioning, motor skills, learning, and judgment. This study examined how psychiatric problems might also be linked to prenatal alcohol exposure. Beginning with a longitudinal study of 1,529 pregnant women, researchers chose a group of 500 newborns who were most heavily exposed to alcohol, plus a sampling of newborns with exposures varying from total abstinence to heavy drinking. Years later, at an average age of 25.7 years, 400 members of the newborn group were...
easyaccessdrugs.com
October 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Three national drug-use monitoring studies have cited significant increases in prescription opioid use over the past 5 years, particularly among young people. The causes for this increase are unknown; however, the leadership of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy have both expressed concern that online pharmacies selling medications without prescriptions may be playing a role. Very little is known about these “no-prescription websites” (NPWs), their characteristics, or the degree to which they contribute to drug abuse....
October 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Three national drug-use monitoring studies have cited significant increases in prescription opioid use over the past 5 years, particularly among young people. The causes for this increase are unknown; however, the leadership of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy have both expressed concern that online pharmacies selling medications without prescriptions may be playing a role. Very little is known about these “no-prescription websites” (NPWs), their characteristics, or the degree to which they contribute to drug abuse....
Early Intervention with Youth More Effective
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
Women Are Drinking Less
August 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
There has been a growing public concern about women’s drinking habits because current research in women’s health issues point to links between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, higher risk of alcohol-related liver problems as compared with men, and the risks of fetal alcohol syndrome. There is also a fear that alcohol may pose an increased risk of physical assault. Given women’s role changes over the past several decades, stresses due to employment, and college and university environments in which heavy drinking occurs, it seems reasonable to expect that more and more women are...
August 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
There has been a growing public concern about women’s drinking habits because current research in women’s health issues point to links between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, higher risk of alcohol-related liver problems as compared with men, and the risks of fetal alcohol syndrome. There is also a fear that alcohol may pose an increased risk of physical assault. Given women’s role changes over the past several decades, stresses due to employment, and college and university environments in which heavy drinking occurs, it seems reasonable to expect that more and more women are...
All You Have Is a Wide-Awake Drunk
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
It has been suggested so-called energy drinks might reduce the intensity of the depressant effects of alcohol. Users who combine alcohol with an energy drink frequently report a reduction in sleeplessness and an increase in pleasure when these drinks are combined. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this hypothesis. A recent study in Brazil evaluated the effects of the simultaneous ingestion of an alcohol (vodka) and an energy drink (Red Bull) compared with those who ingested an alcohol or an energy drink alone. Twenty-six healthy volunteers in their early twenties...
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
It has been suggested so-called energy drinks might reduce the intensity of the depressant effects of alcohol. Users who combine alcohol with an energy drink frequently report a reduction in sleeplessness and an increase in pleasure when these drinks are combined. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this hypothesis. A recent study in Brazil evaluated the effects of the simultaneous ingestion of an alcohol (vodka) and an energy drink (Red Bull) compared with those who ingested an alcohol or an energy drink alone. Twenty-six healthy volunteers in their early twenties...
A Bad Rap for Rap Music
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
How Very Young Girls View Alcohol
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
Alcoholism May Not Be a Progressive Disease
January 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Common hypotheses among researchers in the field of alcohol studies are that a set of symptoms associated with alcohol-use disorders progress in a sequential pattern and that there is a systematic progression from alcohol abuse to alcohol dependence. But is there evidence that symptoms of alcohol use develop in an orderly fashion? Does the presence of a certain symptom indicate how far the disease has progressed? In a recent study of older, community-residing problem drinkers, researchers identified possible sequences of symptoms based on the average age of symptom onset, the average...
January 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Common hypotheses among researchers in the field of alcohol studies are that a set of symptoms associated with alcohol-use disorders progress in a sequential pattern and that there is a systematic progression from alcohol abuse to alcohol dependence. But is there evidence that symptoms of alcohol use develop in an orderly fashion? Does the presence of a certain symptom indicate how far the disease has progressed? In a recent study of older, community-residing problem drinkers, researchers identified possible sequences of symptoms based on the average age of symptom onset, the average...
Older Women Do Better in Treatment
April 30th, 2005 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Treatment of older adults – particularly older women – for alcohol dependence has received little research attention. This study, led by Dr. Derek Satre of UCSF, examined the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of older alcohol-dependent men and women at a mixed-age, private outpatient chemical dependency program. Researchers drew data from two randomized studies conducted at the Kaiser Permanente Chemical Dependency Recovery Program in Sacramento between 1994 and 1996, and 1997 and 1998, gathering a final sample of 92 patients (63 males, 29 females), ages 55 to 77 years....
April 30th, 2005 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Treatment of older adults – particularly older women – for alcohol dependence has received little research attention. This study, led by Dr. Derek Satre of UCSF, examined the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of older alcohol-dependent men and women at a mixed-age, private outpatient chemical dependency program. Researchers drew data from two randomized studies conducted at the Kaiser Permanente Chemical Dependency Recovery Program in Sacramento between 1994 and 1996, and 1997 and 1998, gathering a final sample of 92 patients (63 males, 29 females), ages 55 to 77 years....
Lower Copayment Brings More Adolescents Into Treatment
April 30th, 2005 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use by teenagers creates major health and policy issues. The sheer size of this group – today’s adolescents make up the largest generation in American history – illuminates the need for substance-use treatment services. This study looks at the effects of a reduction in the copayment amount by a large self-insured state employer on utilization of adolescent services. Specifically, does the number of adolescent users of substance-use outpatient services increase if there is a resultant reduction in cost-sharing arrangements? Researchers analyzed 31,585 records on...
April 30th, 2005 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use by teenagers creates major health and policy issues. The sheer size of this group – today’s adolescents make up the largest generation in American history – illuminates the need for substance-use treatment services. This study looks at the effects of a reduction in the copayment amount by a large self-insured state employer on utilization of adolescent services. Specifically, does the number of adolescent users of substance-use outpatient services increase if there is a resultant reduction in cost-sharing arrangements? Researchers analyzed 31,585 records on...
College Student Pill Use Second Only to Pot
April 30th, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to previous research, the illicit use of prescription pain medication has increased significantly among college students during the past decade, reaching a historic high point in 2002. This University of Michigan study assesses the characteristics of undergraduate college students who illicitly use prescription pain medication. Researchers secured a random sample of 19,378 full-time undergraduate students from the Registrar’s Office at a large Midwestern university in the United States, e-mailing each of them an invitation to self-administer the Student Life Survey via the...
April 30th, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to previous research, the illicit use of prescription pain medication has increased significantly among college students during the past decade, reaching a historic high point in 2002. This University of Michigan study assesses the characteristics of undergraduate college students who illicitly use prescription pain medication. Researchers secured a random sample of 19,378 full-time undergraduate students from the Registrar’s Office at a large Midwestern university in the United States, e-mailing each of them an invitation to self-administer the Student Life Survey via the...
Alcohol/Drug Crossover in Men with a Family History of Alcoholism Examined
January 31st, 2005 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
The 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 50% of young adults assessed with illicit drug disorders (abuse and dependence) also met the criteria for an alcohol use disorder. However, among those assessed with an alcohol use disorder (abuse and dependence), only one-third also met the criteria for an illicit drug disorder. Prior research had identified several factors contributing to the crossover between alcohol and other substance abuse and dependence. In adults, antisocial personality disorder, manic depressive disease and schizophrenia have been associated with an...
January 31st, 2005 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
The 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 50% of young adults assessed with illicit drug disorders (abuse and dependence) also met the criteria for an alcohol use disorder. However, among those assessed with an alcohol use disorder (abuse and dependence), only one-third also met the criteria for an illicit drug disorder. Prior research had identified several factors contributing to the crossover between alcohol and other substance abuse and dependence. In adults, antisocial personality disorder, manic depressive disease and schizophrenia have been associated with an...
College Drinking Has Serious Health Consequences
August 31st, 2004 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Heavy episodic drinking by college students has been associated with numerous adverse consequences. Alcohol poisoning and serious injuries are of particular concern. However, neither the incidence nor the demographic and clinical characteristics of these health consequences has been clearly defined. In this study the medical records of college students who sought treatment at a university medical center emergency department were examined. A total of 1,529 records were viewed by the researchers. Of these 193 (13%) had alcohol use as a contributing factor. Five percent of these students...
August 31st, 2004 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Heavy episodic drinking by college students has been associated with numerous adverse consequences. Alcohol poisoning and serious injuries are of particular concern. However, neither the incidence nor the demographic and clinical characteristics of these health consequences has been clearly defined. In this study the medical records of college students who sought treatment at a university medical center emergency department were examined. A total of 1,529 records were viewed by the researchers. Of these 193 (13%) had alcohol use as a contributing factor. Five percent of these students...
Animal Studies May Help Children Exposed to Drugs
August 31st, 2004 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to legal and illegal drugs is one of the single most preventable causes of developmental problems in North American children today. Large-scale investigations indicate that children who are born to mothers who abused drugs during pregnancy have an increased risk of substance abuse or addictive behaviors. This review summarizes the experimental animal research that investigated the role of drug exposure in utero on the development of specific brain circuits that are involved in the reinforcing effects of addictive drugs, and on the behaviors that are controlled by these...
August 31st, 2004 / Children / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to legal and illegal drugs is one of the single most preventable causes of developmental problems in North American children today. Large-scale investigations indicate that children who are born to mothers who abused drugs during pregnancy have an increased risk of substance abuse or addictive behaviors. This review summarizes the experimental animal research that investigated the role of drug exposure in utero on the development of specific brain circuits that are involved in the reinforcing effects of addictive drugs, and on the behaviors that are controlled by these...
Why There Are No Seniors In Beer Ads
August 31st, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
To determine trends in drinking patterns of men and women aged 60 and older, researchers analyzed five years of alcohol consumption data from the National Health Institute Surveys (NIHS). Previous studies of older drinkers measured the average number of drinks per day in order to examine the association of alcohol and health. In this study, quantity and frequency were measured separately so that researchers might find associations between these two separate measures and certain medical conditions. For example, two studies found that frequency of drinking was associated with the reduced risk...
August 31st, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
To determine trends in drinking patterns of men and women aged 60 and older, researchers analyzed five years of alcohol consumption data from the National Health Institute Surveys (NIHS). Previous studies of older drinkers measured the average number of drinks per day in order to examine the association of alcohol and health. In this study, quantity and frequency were measured separately so that researchers might find associations between these two separate measures and certain medical conditions. For example, two studies found that frequency of drinking was associated with the reduced risk...
Early Sleep Difficulties May Point to Later A&D Problems
August 31st, 2004 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
August 31, 2004 Researchers already know that some adults with sleep problems later develop alcohol-use disorders. No long term research, however, has studied the relationship between sleep problems (overtiredness and difficulty sleeping) during childhood and subsequent alcohol use during adolescence. This study examined whether sleep problems in early childhood predict the onset of alcohol and other drug use in adolescence, and also if such a relationship is affected by other known predictors of early onset alcohol use and problems, such as attention problems, anxiety/depression, and...
August 31st, 2004 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
August 31, 2004 Researchers already know that some adults with sleep problems later develop alcohol-use disorders. No long term research, however, has studied the relationship between sleep problems (overtiredness and difficulty sleeping) during childhood and subsequent alcohol use during adolescence. This study examined whether sleep problems in early childhood predict the onset of alcohol and other drug use in adolescence, and also if such a relationship is affected by other known predictors of early onset alcohol use and problems, such as attention problems, anxiety/depression, and...
Intoxicated and Underage Find Easy Access to Alcohol
April 30th, 2004 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol, America’s youth, car crashes, violence: the connections aren’t difficult to make. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that of the more than 6,000 youth (ages 15 to 20) who died in motor vehicle crashes in 2000, nearly 40 percent (2,339) were alcohol-related. Furthermore, according to national police data from 1998, youth and young adults (ages 15 to 29) committed 37 percent of those violent incidents that involved alcohol. This study examined how clerk/server, outlet, and neighborhood characteristics may contribute to alcohol sales to underage or...
April 30th, 2004 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol, America’s youth, car crashes, violence: the connections aren’t difficult to make. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that of the more than 6,000 youth (ages 15 to 20) who died in motor vehicle crashes in 2000, nearly 40 percent (2,339) were alcohol-related. Furthermore, according to national police data from 1998, youth and young adults (ages 15 to 29) committed 37 percent of those violent incidents that involved alcohol. This study examined how clerk/server, outlet, and neighborhood characteristics may contribute to alcohol sales to underage or...
Older Patients Do OK in Community-Based Treatment
April 30th, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
The number of patients 55 years or older with alcohol use problems has increased. There is concern that these older patients may not receive the same quality of treatment as do younger patients, especially in community-based facilities. In contrast to hospitals, community settings have relatively fewer older patients, lower levels of professional staffing, and a wide range of treatment services, and might consequently be biased in their treatment of older individuals. A recent study compared older (55–77 years of age), middle-aged (40–54), and young (24–39) male veterans who...
April 30th, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
The number of patients 55 years or older with alcohol use problems has increased. There is concern that these older patients may not receive the same quality of treatment as do younger patients, especially in community-based facilities. In contrast to hospitals, community settings have relatively fewer older patients, lower levels of professional staffing, and a wide range of treatment services, and might consequently be biased in their treatment of older individuals. A recent study compared older (55–77 years of age), middle-aged (40–54), and young (24–39) male veterans who...
Golden Years: Abuse Will Grow
April 30th, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly three times as many individuals with alcohol and drug problems smoke cigarettes when compared to the general population. Despite these statistics, alcohol and illicit drug abuse in the United States has historically been associated with young populations. Use/abuse typically wanes with increasing age, due to either “maturing out” or higher mortality rates among abusers and addicts. However, research that shows relatively high alcohol and drug use among “baby boomers” (born from 1946 to 1964), in conjunction with the sheer size of that group, raises concerns about future...
April 30th, 2004 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly three times as many individuals with alcohol and drug problems smoke cigarettes when compared to the general population. Despite these statistics, alcohol and illicit drug abuse in the United States has historically been associated with young populations. Use/abuse typically wanes with increasing age, due to either “maturing out” or higher mortality rates among abusers and addicts. However, research that shows relatively high alcohol and drug use among “baby boomers” (born from 1946 to 1964), in conjunction with the sheer size of that group, raises concerns about future...
National Alcohol Screening Day Proves Worthwhile
April 30th, 2004 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
In 1992, 14 million Americans were diagnosed with alcohol use disorders and an estimated 20% more could have been classified as risky drinkers, yet only an estimated 3.4 million Americans received alcohol treatment. This disparity led to the creation in 1999 of National Alcohol Screening Day (NASD), a program providing public education, screening, and referral for treatment. There were 1,218 community sites (mostly general and psychiatric hospitals) and 499 college sites across the United States that participated in the AUDIT screening, a ten-question self-test developed by the World Health...
April 30th, 2004 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
In 1992, 14 million Americans were diagnosed with alcohol use disorders and an estimated 20% more could have been classified as risky drinkers, yet only an estimated 3.4 million Americans received alcohol treatment. This disparity led to the creation in 1999 of National Alcohol Screening Day (NASD), a program providing public education, screening, and referral for treatment. There were 1,218 community sites (mostly general and psychiatric hospitals) and 499 college sites across the United States that participated in the AUDIT screening, a ten-question self-test developed by the World Health...
Does Alcohol Advertising in Magazines Target Adolescents?
October 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Not surprisingly, research has found that adolescents who are exposed to large amounts of alcohol advertising are more likely to use alcohol. In a recent study, researchers counted alcohol advertisements that appeared in 35 of 48 major US magazines from 1997-2001. During this period the alcohol industry placed 9,148 ads at a cost of $696 million. The authors found that after adjustment for age, sex, race and household income, as well as frequency of publication and cost per advertisement, both beer and distilled liquor advertisements appeared more frequently in magazines with higher...
October 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Not surprisingly, research has found that adolescents who are exposed to large amounts of alcohol advertising are more likely to use alcohol. In a recent study, researchers counted alcohol advertisements that appeared in 35 of 48 major US magazines from 1997-2001. During this period the alcohol industry placed 9,148 ads at a cost of $696 million. The authors found that after adjustment for age, sex, race and household income, as well as frequency of publication and cost per advertisement, both beer and distilled liquor advertisements appeared more frequently in magazines with higher...
Alcohol Dependence and Elderly Suicides
October 31st, 2003 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Past studies of suicides among young and mixed-aged groups have shown that 25 – 55% of the individuals suffered from alcohol or drug dependence or abuse. Similar studies of suicides among the elderly, however, have reported a wide range of figures. In an effort to assess the suicide risk associated with alcohol use in elderly men and women, researchers involved in a recent study in Sweden interviewed family members of 85 suicide victims. They examined the victim’s life events, use of alcohol and illicit drugs, mental and physical health, history of suicidal behavior and other related...
October 31st, 2003 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Past studies of suicides among young and mixed-aged groups have shown that 25 – 55% of the individuals suffered from alcohol or drug dependence or abuse. Similar studies of suicides among the elderly, however, have reported a wide range of figures. In an effort to assess the suicide risk associated with alcohol use in elderly men and women, researchers involved in a recent study in Sweden interviewed family members of 85 suicide victims. They examined the victim’s life events, use of alcohol and illicit drugs, mental and physical health, history of suicidal behavior and other related...
Who Do Alcohol Ads Think They Are Kidding?
January 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
More than $1 billion is spent on alcohol advertising each year via television, radio, magazines, billboards, and posters in public venues. Although many complex factors (parents, friends, other environmental influences) shape children’s attitudes about alcohol, there is a growing concern about the potential effects that alcohol advertising may have on young people. Studies indicate that children and adolescents who are more exposed to alcohol advertisements 1) believe that drinking is more likely to have positive consequences, 2) perceive higher levels of alcohol use by, and approval of,...
January 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
More than $1 billion is spent on alcohol advertising each year via television, radio, magazines, billboards, and posters in public venues. Although many complex factors (parents, friends, other environmental influences) shape children’s attitudes about alcohol, there is a growing concern about the potential effects that alcohol advertising may have on young people. Studies indicate that children and adolescents who are more exposed to alcohol advertisements 1) believe that drinking is more likely to have positive consequences, 2) perceive higher levels of alcohol use by, and approval of,...
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