A recent World Health Organization study has identified England as having the highest rates of alcohol consumption among school children, compared to over 40 other countries surveyed. The report revealed that over half of 13-year-olds and a third of 11-year-olds in England have consumed alcohol. The study also found that both 13- and 15-year-old girls in the UK are more likely to indulge in drinking, smoking, and vaping than boys of the same age.

This pattern extends to higher rates of vaping and alcohol consumption among girls in England and Scotland at age 15, in comparison to girls in many other developed countries. Notably, these behaviors are associated with reduced life satisfaction and well-being, particularly among girls from less affluent backgrounds.

The WHO has expressed concern over the global public health threat posed by adolescent alcohol consumption, which contributes to 3 million deaths annually worldwide. In response to these findings, the WHO has called for stricter controls on social media advertising of alcohol, tobacco, and vape products to protect the health of young people.

In addition, the UK Government is taking steps to mitigate these risks through legislation aimed at creating the UK’s first smoke-free generation. This includes the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which restricts the sale of tobacco and vaping products to individuals born after January 1, 2009, and seeks to reduce the appeal of these products to children.

These developments highlight ongoing efforts to address the health and safety concerns associated with underage drinking, smoking, and vaping in the UK.