Alcohol intake among Indian teenagers on rise: Survey

Alcohol consumption among teenagers in the age group of 15-19 is growing at an alarming rate, a survey has found.

The alcohol intake is seen more among teenagers in metropolitan cities due to "absent parents, easy money and rising rates of stress and depression."

The survey was conducted by the social development foundation of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), the country's premier apex chamber founded in 1920.

The survey has revealed that 45 per cent of the 12th graders in metropolitan cities consume alcohol excessively, at least five to six times in a month. Its results indicate an almost 100 per cent increase in teenage drinking in the last 10 years.

More than 32% of teens who admitted drinking said they drink when they are upset; 18% said they drink alone; 15% said they drink when they are bored; and 46% said they drink to "get high."

The survey also highlighted that each year students spend 3,500-4,500 Rs. on alcohol, more than they spend on soft drinks, tea, milk, juice, coffee, movie tickets or books combined.

The survey also indicates that 70% of teens consume alcohol during farewell parties, New Year, Christmas, Valentine's Day, birthdays and other occasions.

The study surveyed over 2,000 teenagers in cities like Mumbai, Kochi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Indore, Patna, Pune, Delhi, Chandigarh and Dehradun. It revealed that liquor consumption was most prevalent in Delhi and Mumbai followed by Chandigarh and Hyderabad.

"More young Indians are resorting to alcohol these days due to the growing liberated society, easy spending power and wide availability of brands," said DS Rawat, secretary general of Assocham.

High usage of alcohol has resulted in deliberate self-harm, high-risk sexual behaviour, liver disease and duodenal ulcers. Other consequences include academic problems, poor health, mental health problems, accidents and addiction, the study reveals.

It suggests parents to exercise early monitoring and open communication to prevent their children from taking alcohol.