Who gave them the alcohol?
From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat. Teens shouldn’t drink. And grownups shouldn’t help them drink. But both things happen. A survey finds more than 40 percent of underage drinkers got alcohol free from an adult. In fact, HHS’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – SAMHSA – says its data show about 650,000 got alcohol from their parents. Acting Surgeon General Steven Galson says adults are setting these young people on the wrong road early. Almost 9.5 percent of underage drinkers could be described as having an alcohol use disorder. Parents can play a positive role. Open communication early and often can help prevent underage drinking. Galson says: “Proper parental guidance is only part of the solution to this devastating public health problem, but it’s a critical part.” (8 seconds) Learn more at hhs.gov. HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss. Last revised: July, 10 2008 | 
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