WILLEMSTAD - According to a recent survey conducted by FMA, the Fundashon pa Maneho di Adikshon (Foundation for Addiction Management), it has been revealed that alcohol and vaping/electronic cigarettes are the most commonly used addictive substances among individuals under 25 years of age.
FMA is the leading knowledge center in Curaçao for addiction prevention and treatment, and this survey was carried out from early July to September.
Napa Of the 369 young people who participated in the study, a majority admitted to using alcohol, followed by vaping/electronic cigarettes. Interestingly, the percentage of young women who consume alcohol was higher than that of young men.
The research also highlighted that one-third of cannabis users employ the drug as a way to cope with their emotions and life problems.
The study also revealed that vaping is more popular than traditional cigarette use. About 7.5 percent of the respondents exhibited problematic use or a disorder related to vaping/electronic cigarettes.
Trends
FMA mentions that the survey results are not representative, as certain factors were not controlled, and participants were not randomly selected. Nonetheless, the research provides insight into the current trends in substance use among Curaçao's youth.
Considering the prevalence of health issues such as high blood pressure and heart diseases on the island, based on this research, FMA calls upon the government to make more efforts to protect young people.
This can be achieved through measures like amending laws that regulate the sale and accessibility of addictive substances, and ensuring strict compliance with these laws.