Teens and alcohol

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There's no getting away from the fact that we have a massive problem with underage drinking in the UK.

New research shows that teenagers in the UK are the 3rd-worst drinkers in Europe, behind only Denmark and the Isle Of Man.

A third of 15- and 16-year-olds admitted they'd been drunk at least once in the past 30 days and girls are more likely to booze than boys.

Scientists are now warning that teenage drinking can even lead to brain damage. But short of grounding your kids indefinitely, they're bound to come into contact with alcohol outside the home. So talk to them about the risks now.

The facts

Every day 15 children under the age of 16 are admitted to A&E because of alcohol abuse. Some have drunk more than a bottle of vodka in one session.
Scientists warn that teenagers who drink heavily are risking permanent damage to their brain function.
Alcohol has been shown to cause significant memory loss in youngsters and could extend to adulthood.
11-13 year-olds who drink regularly have more than 10 units of alcohol a week, compared to six in 2001.
Older teenagers who drink regularly have an average of 11.4 units a week, that's about five and a half-pints. Half of those are binge drinking at least two days a week.
NHS statistics show that one-fifth of secondary school pupils admit to regular drinking.
Children as young as 12 are now being diagnosed as alcoholics.
An alcoholic unit is half a pint of ordinary strength beer or a glass of wine (125ml) or a pub measure of fortified wine or spirit (25ml)

- Talking to your teen really can help

By Julia Shaw