Risk behaviors in adolescence - a study in a Portuguese health unit

Adolescence is a time of social and self-affirmation, search of autonomy and pleasure. An early sexual debut and substance use are still public health problems.

To assess the prevalence of illicit drug use and sexual behavior of adolescents, ages 15- 17, followed in a Portuguese Family Health Unit.

This was a cross sectional descriptive study of a random convenience sample. Data were obtained from an anonymous and confidential questionnaire, given to patients at adolescent consultation, between the months of May and July 2016. Statistical significance p < 0.05.

This study involved a sample of 134 adolescents, 54.5% girls. It was revealed that 73.1% of adolescents have tried alcohol, from which 18.7% experienced intoxication at least once. Regarding tobacco, 35.1% have tried it, 23.4% are regular users. Regarding cannabinoids, 7.5% of adolescents stated to have tried them once, or to consume them regularly. Adolescents start to experiment with tobacco earlier than with alcohol (9 years old vs. 11 years old), with a mean age of 15 years old. Regarding sexual behavior, 23.8% are sexually active, from which 9.4% do not use any form of contraception. Smoking behavior was a predictor of the consumption of illicit drugs, and it was found a significantly statistic association between sexual activity and substance use, p = 0.04.

By descending order, the alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs consumption are still worrisome and can affect the life of adolescents. Primarily health care and pediatric consultation should provide strategies for prevention and promotion of a healthy lifestyle for adolescents.