New Report Shows High Rates of Drug Use Among Hispanic Youth

A new report by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy shows that Hispanic teen use of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine currently outpaces White and African-American teen use. Research also indicates that while illicit drugs continue to be a problem for Hispanic youth, prescription drugs are emerging as a threat.

Recent data indicates that the adoption of the American culture and lifestyle increases the risk of drug use by Hispanics.

Some specific highlights of the report include:

• Nearly one in 10 Hispanic 8th graders reported current use of marijuana.
• Hispanic youth in 8th, 10th, and 12th grade outpace their African American and White counterparts in terms of current, annual, and lifetime use of cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.
• Methamphetamine use among Hispanic 8th graders is five percent, compared to three percent for White students, and one percent for African American students.
• More than one in five Hispanic teens reported abusing prescription drugs to get high.

To help educate Hispanic parents, the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign is placing an “Open Letter to Parents” in more than 10 top Hispanic markets across the country. Understanding the value the Hispanic community places on educational achievement, the advertisement raises awareness of the negative impact drug use can have on academic success. The ad also offers tips for Hispanic parents on how to prevent risky behaviors and ensure their teen has a better future through higher education.

The Open Letter's advice for parents includes:

• Encourage your child to become involved in fun and safe hobbies that are far removed from drugs; such as extracurricular activities and sports.
• Set and establish clear rules with clear consequences; encourage and reward good behavior, and most importantly, be a good role model.
• Become involved in your teen's life.
• Forget your apprehension about having difficult conversations with your teens and search for the right opportunity to speak with them.
• Tune into and learn about your teen's online activities, use of technology, and exposure to pro-drug messages; and
• Connect with the rest of family, other parents, or community organizations.

Also, as part of its integrated approach to reaching multicultural audiences, the Campaign has created new youth advertising as part of its Above the Influence campaign aimed at teens. The urban youth-focused ads were created to reach Hispanic, African-American, and Asian American Pacific Islander youth.
Community groups play a crucial role in ensuring that parents are aware of growing concerns regarding teen drug use and the steps they can take to ensure their child’s safety and success.

For more information, please visit www.theantidrug.com or www.LaAntiDroga.com.