"An objective review of Polish and international research analyses, and literature on the impact of psychoactive substances on life and health has been conducted," said Prof. Maciej Rudnicki, rector of Polonia University.
The report delves into the impact of addictive substances on health, especially among children and youth, focusing on three categories: alcohol, nicotine, and other psychoactive substances, both legal (such as painkillers and inhalants) and illegal (such as drugs).
The study finds that alcohol is the most prevalent psychoactive substance among Polish youth, often leading to addiction due to early exposure.
Estimates suggest that 4 to 5 million people in Poland struggle with alcohol addiction or excessive drinking, with 1 to 1.2 million needing treatment, yet only about 15 percent receive it, affecting approximately 12 million people through negative societal repercussions of alcoholism.
Tobacco use remains a significant societal issue in Poland, categorized as a civilizational ailment affecting various demographics, including youth, and contributing to premature deaths from respiratory, cardiovascular and cancer-related diseases. Annually, Poles consume over 50 billion cigarettes, averaging 137 million per day.
The report underscores the challenges many smokers encounter when attempting to quit, with an 85 percent failure rate within three years, prompting calls for government initiatives to support cessation efforts, according to Prof. Rudnicki.
Additionally, the report examines the evolving debate on the health impacts of e-cigarettes, stressing the need for ongoing research due to insufficient data on their long-term effects since their introduction.
(mp/gs)
Source: PAP/IAR;Facebook/Akademia Polonijna - Polonia University; YouTube.com/ŚwiatStatystyk
