Pubdate: Fri, 20 Dec 2002 Source: Detroit Free Press (MI) Contact: 2002 Detroit Free Press Website: http://www.freep.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/125 Author: Susan L. Hiltz Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n2277/a03.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) DRUGS, LAWS AND KIDS' FUTURES The 2002 Monitoring the Future study delivered an early holiday gift with its encouraging news about the reduction of drug use by teens ("Teen drug use on decline, study says: U-M researchers say 9/11 has a sobering effect," Dec. 17). However, it is important to remember that drug use among teens remains unacceptably high. We can't let up in our efforts to reduce drug use among kids. Attitudes about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs are changing, and when they do, behavior changes. These changes in attitude can be attributed in part to collaborative community efforts to educate, involve and inform young people. The reality of substance abuse continues to resonate with teens. This is no time for anyone who cares about kids to turn their focus away from the drug issue. In the early 1990s, after making remarkable progress in reducing drug use, the nation chose to focus on other matters. Shortly thereafter, teen drug use began to rise. We cannot make the same mistake again. Parents, media, law enforcement, schools, business, faith communities and local leaders all have a role in helping kids. Much, however, remains to be done. Only with the sustained involvement of our communities and families can we continue to reduce the demand for drugs. Susan L. Hiltz, Executive Director Prevention Coalition of Southeast Michigan (PREVCO) Southfield - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk