4 Troubled Teens Blog

Changes in Rates of Substance Abuse Treatment Among Pregnant Teens

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has release a report revealing significant changes in rates of substance abuse among pregnant teenagers.

The report analyzes available data from 1992 to 2007 for pregnant teens who entered substance abuse programs.

“According to the report, the proportion of pregnant teen admissions for marijuana abuse more than doubled from 19.3 percent in 1992 to 45.9 percent in 2007. Marijuana has surpassed alcohol as the primary substance of abuse cited in admissions for pregnant teens.” [Source: DocuTicker]

On a more positive note, alcohol abuse among teens dropped nearly as much as marijuana abuse increased – falling from 44.1 percent in 1992 to 20.3 percent in 2007.


 

Labels: pregnancy, marijuana, substance_abuse

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton

Comments:

cosmo kramer on 7/21/2010
Pregnant teens using drugs -- and the downward spiral continues. What chance will the children of these children have, when their mother is struggling with substance abuse? If anything, this heart-breaking revelation should prompt our local, state and national leaders to take real steps to fight the scourge of teen pregnancy and teen substance abuse. But, unfortunately, I won't be holding my breath for that outcome ...