More Hispanic youths are using prescription drugs to get high, according to federal officials who unveiled a new prevention program aimed at Latinos, the Associated Press reported July 26.

The rate of prescription-drug abuse is higher among Hispanics than among other ethnic groups, even though Hispanics tend to use fewer illicit drugs overall. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America estimated in 2005 that one in five Hispanic teens had misused prescription drugs.

Some Hispanic families bring home prescription medications from Latin American pharmacies, providing a tempting stockpile for their kids. On the other hand, Hispanic families are seen as having the power to change their children's behaviors because of traditions of family ties and respect for elders.

A new public-service campaign launched by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy includes ads that will run in the top 14 Hispanic media markets.