Sofia, Bulgaria – Smoking and alcohol consumption among children in Bulgaria remain serious public health concerns, with a new study revealing alarming trends in early substance use.
According to research conducted by the National Center for Public Health and Analysis, over 30% of Bulgarian students have tried smoking cigarettes, with more than 40% lighting their first cigarette at just 14 or 15 years old, Nova TV reports.
The data further highlights the widespread prevalence of smoking among young people, with 27.9% of girls and 21.5% of boys currently identified as smokers.
The highest incidence of smoking was recorded in the 15-19 age group, raising concerns over long-term health implications.
Additionally, heavy smoking was significantly more common among girls, with 63.1% of female smokers and 51.3% of male smokers identified as frequent users.
Beyond traditional cigarette use, the study found that teenagers are increasingly turning to new tobacco products.
Among students aged 13-15, 10.8% reported using e-cigarettes, while 16.9% admitted to smoking hookah. Public health experts warn that the rising popularity of alternative nicotine products could contribute to long-term dependency and other health risks.
Alcohol Consumption Begins at Younger Ages
The study also uncovered troubling patterns in alcohol consumption among Bulgarian youth, with an increasing number of children trying alcohol at an earlier age. According to the data, 62.6% of children aged 10-19 have experimented with alcoholic beverages.
Regular alcohol consumption is also a growing concern, with 48.0% of students—including 48.2% of boys and 47.8% of girls—reporting that they drink alcohol.
The majority of underage drinkers belong to the 15-19 age group. Among them, 1.7% of boys and 1.1% of girls admitted to drinking daily, while 46.6% stated that they drink “sometimes.”
Health professionals warn that early exposure to alcohol can have severe consequences, including increased risk of addiction, poor academic performance, and mental health disorders.
Many also express concern over the normalization of alcohol consumption in social settings and its potential impact on future generations.
Growing Threat of Psychoactive Substances
In addition to tobacco and alcohol use, Bulgaria is facing an escalating issue with psychoactive substances. In 2024 alone, 36 new psychoactive substances (NPS) were identified in the country.
These substances come in various forms, including powders, liquids, food products such as candies and cupcakes, vaping liquids, and resins.
Experts fear that the accessibility and disguised nature of these substances make them particularly appealing to young users, increasing the risk of addiction and harmful health effects.
Law enforcement agencies and health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, seeking stronger measures to combat the spread of these substances.
Public Health Officials Call for Action
Health experts and policymakers are urging stronger efforts to curb youth smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
Proposed measures include stricter regulations on the sale of tobacco and alcohol to minors, increased public awareness campaigns, and enhanced school-based education programs focused on prevention.
As the study’s findings shed light on the growing challenges posed by early substance use, public health officials stress the need for urgent intervention to protect Bulgaria’s youth from long-term harm.