A recent study, spearheaded by the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, has revealed concerning trends regarding over-the-counter drug misuse among middle school students. The survey indicates that a significant portion of this demographic is engaging in this behavior.
The findings show that approximately 1 in 55 middle school students, equivalent to 1.8% of the surveyed population, admitted to abusing over-the-counter medications within the past year. This abuse was defined as using the drugs to alter mood or achieve a "high," exceeding the recommended dosage, or using the medication for purposes other than its intended medical treatment.
Further analysis of the data revealed gender-based differences in the prevalence of this behavior. Specifically, 1.5% of male students and 2.0% of female students reported misusing over-the-counter drugs.
The survey, conducted between September and December of the previous year, involved a substantial sample size. Nearly 38,000 students from a total of 124 schools provided valid responses, contributing to the study's comprehensive scope.
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
1.8% may seem small, but it's still 1 in 55 kids – that’s too many! We need to take action.
BuggaBoom
They need to focus on real drug problems, not this over-the-counter nonsense.
KittyKat
The focus should be educating kids about responsible usage rather than framing them as criminals.
Raphael
I appreciate the efforts of the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry in highlighting these issues.
Bermudez
1.8% is hardly a crisis. Let’s not create panic where there isn’t much to worry about.