Decline in Traditional Substance Use, Rise in E-Cigarette Use Among Monaco Youth Revealed by ESPAD 2024 Study

The 2024 edition of the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) reveals a mixed landscape of substance use among Monaco's high school students. While there is a notable decline in the consumption of traditional substances like tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis, the study, conducted in April across Monaco’s educational institutions with a robust 90% participation rate from 1,300 students aged 15 and 16, shows a worrisome increase in the use of electronic cigarettes. The survey findings underscore the evolving challenges facing youth in the Principality and provide a benchmark for Monaco's preventative health policies in comparison with 35 other European nations.

Significantly, the survey documents a historic reduction in the number of students who have ever smoked, with figures plummeting from over 55% five years ago to 36% in 2024. Similarly, alcohol and cannabis use among students have decreased, with less than one in six students now reporting having tried cannabis. These trends suggest a positive reception and effectiveness of recent public health interventions aimed at reducing substance abuse among the youth.

However, the rise in electronic cigarette use is a developing concern, with daily vaping rates now exceeding those of traditional cigarette smoking among students. This shift points to potential gaps in current health education and prevention strategies that might not fully address the nuances of new substance use trends, such as vaping. The ESPAD results also draw attention to other behavioral issues, including excessive internet and social media use, highlighting the broader spectrum of challenges that could influence the mental and physical health of Monaco's younger population. The study's insights into sleep deprivation and its impact on student well-being further emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies that encompass both substance-related and digital behaviors.