There are
many health concerns in America, one of which is Teen Alcohol Abuse. Teen
alcohol abuse is a serious problem, that isn’t dealt with as severely as it
should be. When consumed by minors, alcohol may have concentrated effects.
Although teens drink alcohol blatantly, they may not realize the risks
involved.
When a teen
consumes alcohol, their frontal lobe cortex becomes impaired, meaning they
can’t make the right decisions. Studies show that intoxicated teens are more
likely to engage in unprotected sex than sober teens. This one bad decision may
result in a teen pregnancy. Also, teens involved in automobile crashes,
homicides, and suicides; alcohol was the leading factor in all three. There’s a
saying “One bad decision may lead to the next”, and that’s just the case
because teens who drink alcohol are more prone to smoking marijuana, using
inhalants, and/or carrying a weapon. These bad decisions will affect them for
the rest of their lives.
Aside from
numerous studies showing the negative effects of alcohol, it still isn’t
considered a major problem in the U.S. In fact, its only ranked #8 on a top 10
child health concerns of the U.S. survey, almost last. With immediate danger,
and instant health risks, it needs to be listed as more important than #8.
Though there are many efforts at alcohol abuse awareness, more can, and needs
to be done.
In addition
to bad decision making, physical consequences occur. Over consumption of
alcohol may result in high blood pressure, and ultimately permanently damage
the heart. But the heart isn’t the only muscle that will be affected, the brain
will also be targeted. Alcohol damages the brain transmissions of nerve
impulses, and destroys brain cells, which slows brain function. Such brain
function involves the ability to learn, keep focused (it causes delirium), and
keep steady muscle movements.
The
previously listed facts are all of the more reason to increase awareness of
teen alcohol abuse. The negative effects it causes a teen will be with them for
the rest of their lives. Although teens drink alcohol blatantly, they may not
realize the risks involved. Teen alcohol abuse presents both immediate and long
lasting consequences, that should be stopped, if not prevented.
