PhD defence L.E.M. (Louise) Pigeaud

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation: 

Underage alcohol use remains a serious concern. In her dissertation, physician-researcher Louise Pigeaud examines trends, risk factors, and prevention strategies related to alcohol use and intoxication among adolescents in the Netherlands and Europe.

Although overall alcohol consumption among youth is declining, the number of hospital admissions due to alcohol intoxication has increased. 
These admitted adolescents are also more likely to engage in other risky behaviors such as smoking, drug use, and early sexual activity compared to their peers. In addition, nearly half have a mental health disorder or come from a family with addiction-related issues. After follow-up care at an alcohol outpatient clinic, these adolescents tend to drink less and engage less in binge drinking.

An important insight comes from a European study involving 52,000 underage youth: adolescents mainly drink due to positive associations with alcohol, such as social bonding and celebratory moments. Alcohol is highly normalized in society, partly due to advertising that links alcohol with fun and success. Limiting alcohol marketing is therefore crucial.

The sports world is another key area for alcohol prevention due to poor enforcement of age verification and involvement from the alcohol industry. After intoxication, 60% of adolescents show signs of muscle breakdown, a fact that could help discourage drinking among young athletes. A ban on alcohol advertising in sports is recommended.

Interviews with adolescents who experienced alcohol intoxication reveal they often do not recognize when they are getting drunk and report experiencing blackouts. They call for better education, stricter enforcement, and reduced alcohol advertising to help mitigate alcohol-related harm in their generation.

European collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential to strengthen prevention efforts and align with WHO recommendations.