Cannabis consumption on the rise among students in Bermuda 

The Department of National Drug Control (DNDC) in Bermuda has released findings indicating a decline in alcohol and tobacco use among young individuals, while cannabis consumption continues to be more common among school-aged pupils.

Survey details and results

Conducted jointly by the DNDC and the Ministry of Education last October, the survey encompassed 2,701 children aged between 10 and 18. 

Results unveiled on Monday showcased a notable shift, with 48.4 per cent of respondents admitting to drug use at least once in their lifetime, down from 52.8 per cent recorded in the previous survey conducted in 2019.

Government officials underscored the dynamic nature of adolescent substance use, stressing the necessity for vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions to effectively address emerging trends.

Statistical insights

The survey revealed that 42 per cent of students had experimented with alcohol, 12.6 per cent had tried cannabis, and 3.5 per cent had smoked cigarettes. 

- Advertisement -

In comparison to the 2019 figures of 45.2 per cent, 18.3 per cent, and 5.2 per cent respectively, this represents a notable decline in alcohol and tobacco use but a persistent prevalence of cannabis consumption.

Cannabis popularity and health perceptions

Significantly, almost 15 per cent of S4 students reported current cannabis use, contrasting sharply with less than two percent indicating cigarette smoking. 

Moreover, cannabis consumption skewed higher among girls than boys, suggesting potential health-related factors influencing its popularity over tobacco.

Perceived health risks

The majority of students, accounting for 92 per cent, perceived frequent cigarette smoking as the most harmful behavior in terms of health risks, while 81.5 per cent viewed occasional marijuana use as harmful, according to government statements.

Accessibility and risky behaviors

Alarming statistics emerged regarding the accessibility of alcohol and marijuana. Roughly 10.4 per cent of students were offered marijuana, while 13.7 per cent were offered alcohol within the past 30 days preceding the survey. 

Furthermore, findings indicated that a substantial proportion of respondents had been exposed to risky behaviors, such as riding with intoxicated drivers.

Nearly three in 10 students expressed curiosity about trying illegal drugs, with over one in five indicating a willingness to experiment if presented with the opportunity.

More Stories

Guyana Government to assist sugar workers

Guyana in diplomatic talks with US over Cuban medical missions sanctions

The Government of Guyana is engaged in diplomatic discussions with the United States to address concerns over the expansion of US restrictions on Cuba’s...
Nearly six thousand people killed Haiti in 2024

IACHR expresses concern over worsening security crisis in Haiti

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has voiced grave concerns over the escalating security crisis in Haiti, citing a surge in extreme violence...
Owen James

Jamaican media mourns the passing of veteran journalist Owen James

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist Owen James, hailing him as a trailblazer in...
Turks and Caicos

US warns Americans not to travel with firearms or ammo to Turks and Caicos

The U.S. Department of State has issued a forceful warning to American travelers, urging them to leave all firearms and ammunition at home when...
Barbados to host 69th CARPHA

Barbados to host 69th CARPHA Health Research Conference focused on mental health

Barbados will host the 69th Annual Health Research Conference of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) from May 7 to 9, with a...
Stuart Young

Stuart Young to be sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on March 17

Energy Minister Stuart Young is set to be sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on March 17, following Dr. Keith Rowley’s...
Issa Trust Foundation

Issa Trust Foundation expands neonatal training in Jamaica

From February 28 to March 14, 2025, the Issa Trust Foundation spearheaded a critical initiative to enhance neonatal care in Jamaica by providing specialized...
eGov Technology Showcase

Jamaica advances digital transformation at eGov Technology Showcase

The future of Jamaica’s digital transformation took center stage at yesterday’s eGov Jamaica Limited GOJ Digital Government Technology Showcase at the Jamaica Pegasus. The event,...
Jamaica tufton

Jamaica’s health minister: No evidence of forced labor among Cuban medical workers

Jamaica's Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has dismissed concerns that Cuban medical professionals working in Jamaica are victims of forced labor, reaffirming...
imf

IMF highlights St. Lucia’s strong economic performance

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended St. Lucia’s economic recovery, citing strong growth in tourism, construction, and manufacturing. In its 2024 Article IV consultation,...

Latest Articles

Skip to content