Adolescent Cocaine Use: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention

Abstract

Epidemiological studies of adolescent cocaine use are critically reviewed, risk factors for use are identified, and implications for prevention are discussed. Cocaine use among adolescents is increasing due, in part, to lower prices and the availability of “crack,” a potent smokable form of freebase cocaine. Although most use ends after mild to moderate experimentation, some users develop severe adverse consequences in a short period of time. Risk factors for initial cocaine use have been identified as male gender, use of marijuana, lack of social connections to family and school, peer influences, and psychopathology. However, further studies are needed to identify risk factors for developing more extensive or problematic cocaine use or abuse, including possible underlying biological factors. Prevention efforts should be targeted at preadolescents who show high risk characteristics. Parents, educators, and health care providers should all be involved in prevention programs, to provide a consistent message in the home, the school, and the popular media. Effective techniques that address the identified risk factors are required to maximize the success of prevention efforts.