Researchers at Washington University of Medicine in St. Louis discovered that many of the same genes influence both alcohol and marijuana use as well as dependence. Together, these genes make some people more likely to drink alcohol or use marijuana. As consumption of alcohol or use of marijuana increases, risk of dependency rises.
Read more about Common Genetic Factors Contribute to Alcohol and Marijuana Use and Dependence
As part of an expanded reality-TV-style program aimed at combating drunk driving, high school students across New York City will hear 911 calls from drunk-driving crashes, watch gory videos, and listen to convicted felons.
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Regular consumers of cannabis and alcohol are more impulsive than non-users, according to a study by psychologists from the University of Almeria in Spain, led by Dr. Pilar Flores and Flor ZaldÃvar.
However, there is no evidence of the differences between both of these consumer groups, which makes these experts believe that “consuming these substances, whatever their nature, is related to impulsivity.”
Science Daily reports that this study, which began in October 2006, was promoted by the Department for Equal Opportunities and Social Welfare.
Read more about Regular Users of Cannabis and Alcohol More Impulsive than Non-Users
Pamela Bach, former wife of actor David Hasselhoff, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol on the 101 freeway near Laurel Canyon Blvd. in southern California, according to People.com. Police say Bach showed blood-alcohol levels of .14 and .13 on a breathalyzer test.
Read more about Pamela Bach, Ex-Wife of David Hasselhoff, Arrested for DUI
At a Russian hip-hop awards show Friday night, young fans were praising their prime minister by chanting “Respect, Vladimir Vladimirovich.” Putin took the stage after a rapper’s performance to warn Russia’s youth about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, which are both major problems across the nation.
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Alcohol and drug use are known contributors to adolescents engaging in dangerous sexual activity, which can lead to health risks such as unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. However, research suggests that fewer than half of pediatricians report screening patients for substance use and at-risk sexual behavior.
Read more about Substance Abuse Screening for Teens Can Also Predict Risky Sexual Behavior
When a person uses a chemical substance like cocaine, the drug provokes a response in the immune system, creating special biomolecules that may serve as a permanent record of each exposure.
Read more about Researchers Studying White Blood Cells’ Ability to Retain Memories of Drug Exposure
In Iowa, marijuana and methamphetamine are the most abused illicit drugs, according to the 2010 Iowa Drug Control Strategy. Alcohol continues to be the most frequently abused substance in the state. The report also states that prescription drug abuse appears to be on the rise.
Read more about Marijuana and Meth are the Most Abused Illicit Drugs in Iowa
With the Ignition Project, teenagers get a dose of reality as they make their way through a life maze that helps them learn how to make good choices.
Read more about Maze Teaches Teens to Make Better Life Choices
With the rise in drug and alcohol abuse among teens, three organizations are undertaking an online educational campaign to encourage parents and children of military families to talk about substance abuse.
Read more about Campaign Educates Military Families on Substance Abuse