Drinking by those under the age 21 is a public health problem.
Excessive drinking contributes to more than 3,500 deaths among people below the age of 21 in the U.S. each year.
There were about 189,000 emergency department visits by people under age 21 for injuries and other conditions linked to alcohol in 2010.
More than 90% of the alcohol consumed by those under age 21 is consumed by binge drinkers (defined as 5 or more drinks per occasion for boys; 4 or more drinks per occasion for girls).
Drinking by those below the age of 21 is also strongly linked with:
Death from alcohol poisoning.
Unintentional injuries, such as car crashes, falls, burns, and drowning.
Suicide and violence, such as fighting and sexual assault.
Changes in brain development.
School performance problems, such as higher absenteeism and poor or failing grades.
Alcohol dependence later in life.
Other risk behaviors such as smoking, drug misuse, and risky sexual behaviors. #AlcoholAwarenessMonth
Drug Takeback Day is April 24 we will post the takeback sites in Lorain County soon.According to a survey, a majority of opioids were obtained from family and friends, often from a medicine cabinet. Dispose of your unused and leftover medications to prevent misuse.
To learn more, visit takebackday.dea.gov/.
Critical steps to prevent overdose.You can take steps against overdose - carry naloxone, never be alone, and call 911 in the event of an overdose. Learn more: odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/stop-overdoses/
#harmreductionweek
