In research based on national surveys done with 12-17 year olds, adolescents who reported being exposed to drug and alcohol prevention messages in the last year were less likely to have used cigarettes, alcohol, and illicit drugs in the past month. However, the research also showed that number of adolescents exposed to drug and alcohol prevention messages dropped from 83.2% in 2002 to 77.9% in 2007, along with a decline in participation in out-of-school prevention programs.

Clearly, continued vigilance in making sure our youth receive prevention messages, whether from parents, the media, or schools, is imperative.

For more information call The Office of Safe & Drug Free Schools at 316-973-2260 or go to http://oas.samhsa.gov

From Join Together Online, April 7, 2009, on a report entitled “Exposure to Substance Use Prevention Messages & Substance Use Among Adolescents: 2002-2007″ from NSDUH (National Survey on Drug Use & Health).