Adolescent Substance Use: Insights from the 2021/2022 HBSC Study in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada

The Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study is a large school-based survey that takes place every four years in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Europe. This study collects data on the health and well-being of adolescents, social determinants of health, and informs policies and practices to improve the lives of young people. The 2021/2022 HBSC survey results are presented in a series of volumes that focus on specific health topics.

Volume 3 in the series highlights adolescent substance use, utilizing data from adolescents aged 11, 13, and 15 years across 44 countries and regions in Europe, central Asia, and Canada. The report describes the prevalence of adolescent substance use, including cigarette smoking, electronic cigarette use, alcohol consumption, drunkenness, and cannabis use. It also explores the role of gender, age, social inequality in substance use among adolescents as well as how these behaviors have changed over time.

The findings from the 2021/2022 HBSC survey serve as an important benchmark for current research, interventions and policy-planning efforts aimed at addressing adolescent substance use. Overall, this study provides valuable data that can be used to inform efforts to promote the health and well-being of young people. By examining trends in adolescent substance use and identifying factors that contribute to these behaviors stakeholders can develop targeted interventions and strategies to support adolescents in making healthier choices. The findings from this survey are essential for shaping policies and programs that aim to improve the overall health outcomes of adolescents across various countries and regions.