Sporting Activity and Substance Abuse among Teens: What’s the Link?
Submitted by Ally
- 14 March 2017
A recent survey which looked at the drug habits of over 20,000 US high-school athletes has found those who play high-contact sports, such as hockey, are more likely to use heroin and prescription opioids for non-medicinal purposes.
The investigation’s team-leader suggests that explanations for this trend could include:
- Those who play hockey have greater risk-taking tendencies.
- As hockey is predominately played by the white middle-classes, its players may have greater access to heroin and opioids.
The findings could offer vital information for doctors and parents about the potential substance use risks associated with certain high-contact sports, as well as the importance of monitoring the abuse of prescription drugs.
Click here to read the full article in the Journal of Adolescent Health.