The fact is that smoking cigarettes causes far more harm to children and young people than drugs do.
The proportion of young people reported to be smoking at least weekly (regular smokers) rose between 1986 and 2000. However, the most recent surveys suggest that the prevalence of regular smoking has stabilised, and in older boys has fallen.
| 1986 | 1996 | 2000 |
| Girls 15-16 years | 20% | 29% | 29% |
| Boys 15-16 years | 16% | 23% | 20% |
Alcohol abuse is a major problem in Wales, and high levels of use by young people cause more long term problems than illicit drug use - as does smoking.
Figures from surveys indicate that for older children, weekly drinking and reported drunkenness increased between 1986 and 1996.
Worried?
If you are concerned that your child is drinking too much, you can get more information on the Department of Health website
For advice about young people and alcohol, go to www.wrecked.co.uk
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