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Asking List Of Questions May Reveal Drug Problem

Study Finds Half Of Teens Admit Using Drugs, Alcohol To Doctor

POSTED: 11:59 a.m. EST December 20, 2002

It's time for Bethany Davison's annual doctor's visit, but the questions of today are different than those of years past, according to Health Reporter Alicia Booth.

One such question is: "Have you been using any substances? Like cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs?"

Davison's mother, Lisa, is glad about the change.

"I do think it's a good idea, just because there's a lot of that happening," she said.

Bethany, 17, admits substance abuse is a problem for some teens.

"Yeah, basically drinking is pretty normal," Bethany said. "Smoking is pretty normal. Other drugs come around in and out."

A new study finds half of all teenagers who visit their doctor admit to using alcohol or drugs. More than one in four has a serious problem.

"This is very concerning," said Dr. John R. Knight, a pediatrician. "I don't think anyone had imagined that the numbers were going to be quite that high."

Knight put together a new screening tool for doctors. It's a set of questions to ask teens called "The Crafft Test."

  • Have you ever ridden in a car driven by someone who had used alcohol or drugs?
  • Do you ever use alcohol or drugs to relax or fit in?
  • Do you ever use when you are alone?
  • Do you ever forget things you did while using alcohol or drugs?
  • Do your friends tell you, you should cut down on your drinking?
  • Have you gotten into trouble while using alcohol or drugs

Two or more 'Yes' answers means there could be a problem.

Bethany doesn't mind answering the questions. She said that being involved in sports motivates her not to use alcohol or drugs.

Booth added that the test is specifically designed for health care professionals and not parents. Knight said his standard advice to parents is if you think there might be a problem, there is a problem.




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