At a Glance

Underage drinking is a serious public health problem in the United States. Alcohol is the most widely used substance among America’s youth, and drinking by young people poses enormous health and safety risks.

Underage drinking can cause aggressive behavior, property damage, injuries, violence. This is not simply a problem for some families—it is a nationwide concern.

Parents, teachers, communities, and policies can play a big role in shaping young people’s attitudes toward drinking and preventing underage drinking.