Substance Use in Adolescents: Latest Trends

Adolescent substance use is an ever-changing topic that can be difficult to stay on top of its many components. Recent data show encouraging declines in the use of some substances such as cigarettes,alcohol, and opioids, although they are still prevalent in the adolescent population. Newer issues such as vaping and the legalization of marijuana bring up new challenges in discussing substance use with young patients. Perceptions of risk and evolving campaigns aimed at young people make these two topics particularly important to address with adolescents. This article reviews the statistics regarding the most commonly used substances in the United States, and some important ways that we can reach out to the adolescent population that is so vulnerable to the harms of substance use.