Adolescence and adult exposure to secondhand smoke increases risk of hearing impairment

Second hand smoke (SHS) associated hearing losses of 15 dB or greater in adolescence is found to be proportional to the level of exposure. In adult former smokers SHS exposure risk, of at least a 25dB impairment, increased 30% and 40% for low/mid and high frequencies, respectively. Never smokers hearing impairment risk increased by 14% for low/mid frequencies.

PositiveTip:  Avoid smoking and second had smoke to prevent tobacco smoke related hearing problems.

Energy drinks pose serious health risks to children.

Energy drinks contain pharmacologically active substances in addition to caffeine levels higher than soda drinks. Reports in various countries of the toxicity of these substances has raised serious concern over the safety of children and adolescents. In the USA, 46% of the 5448 caffeine overdoses last year occurred in children and adolescents under the age of 19. Also, 30% to 50% of adolescents and young adults consume energy drinks. More needs to be done to alert parents and children of their potential danger.

PositiveTip: Children and adolescents are healthier when they learn not to depend on drug effects to get through their day. The best sources of energy are good nutritious food, exercise and a good nights sleep.

Adolescent marijuana use almost doubles rate of psychotic symptoms.

European researchers have found that those who used marijuana during their teens and early 20's were nearly twice (1.9x) as likely to experience psychotic symptoms when compared to those who did not use it. Continued use during the study period was associated with a doubled risk compared to nonusers, and predicted more episodes of psychosis later in life as well.

PositiveTip: Although often promoted as a harmless high, serious risks accompany the use of marijuana.