YOUTH DRUG SURVEY RINGS WARNING BELLS IN FLORIDA

Recent news that cocaine, LSD and heroin use among Florida's teens declined
over the past year brought sighs of relief from school and state
administrators, teachers and parents alike.

The statistics in the 2001 Florida Youth Substance Abuse survey, however,
showed marijuana use on the increase among middle school students across
the state.

The rise among students in grades 6-9 can largely be attributed to boredom,
according to Jim McDonough, director of the state's Office of Drug Control.

The new drug statistics should spark serious concern.

And so should the fact that many teens perceive marijuana use "less
harmful" than using other drugs.

Studies show that's not the case, but obviously the facts are not being
effectively communicated to middle school students.

This seems especially true here on the Space Coast. In a survey last year,
one in four senior high students in Brevard reported using some sort of
illegal substance, a rate substantially higher than in most other Florida
counties.

It's evident that students need realistic information about the hazards of
marijuana and the serious threats posed by regular use of it, which include
possible introduction to harder drugs.

Students should be taught that marijuana produces carcinogens at least as
harmful as cigarettes, if not more so.

They should be taught that coughing and wheezing, as well as persistent
chest colds, are malicious byproducts of getting high.

They must learn that marijuana is a mind-altering (psychoactive) drug that
contains THC, the main active chemical component of marijuana. And that THC
is proving to be addictive in lab animals.

According to the National Institute on Drug Use, repeated use of marijuana
also can cause myriad learning impairments, including problems with memory,
disoriented perceptions, trouble with thinking and problem solving, and
loss of coordination.

Middle school students have it hard enough. At a time when they should be
developing more complicated thought processes and refining social skills,
boredom should not be part of their daily equation.

And parents should know that early intervention is key to keeping kids from
drugs.

After-school programs and direct parental involvement could do much to
change this disturbing trend that, if left unchecked, will lead local kids
down the path of stronger drugs and Brevard to a bleaker future.