Teen alcohol poisonings hit record low—but nicotine pouches surge in popularity
Teen alcohol poisonings hit record low—but nicotine pouches surge in popularity
Study: Excessive Alcohol Consumption Among Youth Continues to Decline - Teen alcohol poisonings hit record low—but nicotine pouches surge in popularity
Fewer young people are ending up in hospital due to alcohol poisoning, according to the latest figures. In 2024, around 6,550 adolescents aged 12 to 18 were treated for acute alcohol-related incidents. This marks the lowest number recorded since 2006.
The decline comes amid growing concerns about another trend: the rising popularity of nicotine pouches among teens. Health experts warn these products carry serious addiction risks, often underestimated by young users.
Hospitalisations for underage drinking have fallen sharply over the past five years. The 2024 total of 6,550 cases represents a 14% drop from the previous year and a 62.5% decrease since 2019. The peak was in 2012, when over 20,530 teenagers required medical treatment for alcohol poisoning.
Despite the improvement, experts believe the true scale of underage binge drinking remains hidden. Many teens avoid calling for help due to shame or fear of getting into trouble. This suggests the problem could be far larger than official statistics show.
Meanwhile, nicotine pouches—often called nicopods—are gaining traction among adolescents. These small pouches contain nicotine salts and are tucked between the upper lip and gum. The KKH health insurance provider has raised alarms about their addictive potential, noting some pouches deliver up to four times the nicotine of a single cigarette.
Social media also plays a role in shaping teen behaviour. While no specific influencers have been named, posts and videos promoting alcohol or nicotine pouches are widely shared. The KKH warns that these platforms can normalise risky habits, making them appear harmless or even desirable.
The drop in alcohol-related hospitalisations points to progress in tackling underage drinking. Yet the rise of nicotine pouches and the influence of social media present new challenges. Health authorities continue to stress the dangers of both trends, urging parents and educators to remain vigilant. Without intervention, the long-term risks for young people could grow.
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