A new European study shows that Danish ninth-grade students continue to lead in alcohol consumption, drinking more and starting earlier than their peers in other countries. Nearly 70 percent have consumed alcohol in the past month, and over half have engaged in binge drinking. While there is a slight decline in youth alcohol use, Denmark’s levels remain the highest in Europe, according to the ESPAD survey.

On April 10, the Norwegian government presented Part II of its prevention and treatment reform in the field of drug policy. The proposed legislation addresses the criminal and procedural aspects of the reform, aiming to ensure that individuals with serious and long-term drug problems are not punished for their illness. At the same time, the government maintains that drug use should remain illegal to prevent initiation, particularly among youth.

Signs of alcohol harm found in 1 in 20 children in Swedish pilot study—suggesting fetal exposure may be more common than assumed.

Addiction runs in families—47% of TUBA’s young clients also have grandparents with alcohol problems. Prevention is key.

Rise in workplace cocaine use concerns, with more cases reported to Akan. Linked to risky alcohol use, prevention efforts can address both.

Funding cuts to substance abuse prevention undermine cost-effective solutions and increase future costs, warn Finnish health organizations.

One in four youths in Norway feel cocaine as common at parties as alcohol, highlighting an urgent need for preventive measures.