Alcohol-related problems among adolescents: Part I

Adolescent alcohol use and abuse is a problem of growing concern for physicians who treat this population. This article describes current data reflecting adolescent alcohol use and abuse nationally and in Oklahoma and its resultant problems. A description of risk and protective factors, the physician's role in detecting adolescent problems with alcohol, and suggestions of recommendations to the family are included. To aid in early detection and prevention of a worsening alcohol problem, the physician is encouraged to screen for alcohol use during the routine history and physical exam and is given a very specific developmentally appropriate screening tool to use with adolescents.