COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio has been ranked tenth in a new study analyzing the prevalence of underage drinking across the United States, with 18.18% of youths aged 12 to 20 estimated to have consumed alcohol in the past month. This figure is 14.36% higher than the national average of 15.9%, indicating that nearly one in six young Ohioans have engaged in drinking.
The analysis, conducted by Omega Law Group, examined data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The study focused on the estimated number of young people who had consumed alcohol within the past month as a percentage of the total population in the same age group.
The study revealed that Massachusetts tops the list, with an estimated 23.23% of underage drinkers in the past month, followed by Vermont at 22.29% and Wisconsin at 21.54%. Ohio, ranking tenth, falls behind Montana (18.91%) but ahead of Oregon (17.90%).
A spokesperson for Omega Law Group commented on the findings: “The study reveals notable differences in underage alcohol use across the United States. These highlight the need for targeted efforts to address and reduce alcohol consumption among young people in various regions.”
The spokesperson emphasized the importance of understanding these patterns for developing effective strategies and interventions to combat underage drinking and promote healthier behaviors among youth nationwide.
Nationally, the average percentage of underage drinkers estimated to have consumed alcohol within the past month is 15.9%, meaning just over one in six youths are drinking.
For further details on the study and its methodology, visit Omega Law Group’s website at omegalaw.com.