Letter: How you can help prevent underage drinking

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol is the most commonly used and abused drug among youths in the United States.

Although the legal drinking age is 21 in every state, people aged 12 to 20 years old drink 11 percent of all alcohol consumed in the United States. Ninety percent of this alcohol was consumed in the form of binge drinking.

There are several consequences associated with underage drinking. These include school, social and legal problems. Prevention of underage drinking requires a community-based approach. Strategies to reduce underage use include enforcement of legal drinking age laws, media campaigns, reducing youth exposure to alcohol advertising, and the development and implementation of comprehensive community-based programs.

Parental involvement is another key component. Through open communication, setting and enforcing clear rules against underage drinking, and serving as a positive role model, parents play a huge role in shaping a child’s attitude toward drinking. Although it can be hard to talk about, there are resources available that can help start the conversation. Visit talk2prevent.ny.gov for more information and resources that are designed to help start the conversation regarding the dangers associated with underage drinking.

LAURA LACASSE

BINGHAMTON