Study Sees Ecstasy Use Decline Among Teens

Study Sees Ecstasy Use Decline Among Teens
March 1, 2004

Research Summary

A new study released by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America (PDFA) says that ecstasy use among teens has dropped 25 percent in the last two years, the Associated Press reported Feb. 25.

According to the annual survey, teen ecstasy use dropped from 12 percent in 2001 to 9 percent in 2003.

Despite the decline, Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of the PDFA, said the drug is still a problem.

"The ecstasy threat remains: Last year, 2 million teenagers in America had tried this drug," Pasierb said. "We can and we must kick ecstasy while it's down, and kick it down further."

The study also found a reduction in overall drug use by teens. Declines were seen in marijuana, LSD, and methamphetamine use.

However, the study indicated areas of concern, including a growing use of inhalants and misuse of prescription drugs.

The study was based on data collected from questionnaires completed anonymously by 7,270 adolescents nationwide between April and June 2003.