Digital Exposure Identified as Major Factor Increasing Substance Abuse Risk Among Adolescents in India

A study conducted across various schools in India reveals that one out of every five adolescents is at moderate to high risk of substance abuse. The problem of addiction is widespread among students in schools and colleges. Research from the neighboring country confirms a rapid increase in addiction among school-going adolescents. The findings from a survey conducted during 2025–2026 were published in ‘The Lancet Regional Health—Southeast Asia.’ The study concluded that adolescents are at the highest risk of substance use.

The report covers a survey administered to 6,168 adolescents across 108 private and government schools in different districts of India. The researchers utilized screening methods recommended by the World Health Organization. Results indicate that one in five adolescents is at moderate to high risk of substance use, particularly tobacco smoking, alcohol, and other addictive substances. The surveyed schools were located in Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Kamrup (Assam), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Rajkot, Jharkhand, and Puducherry. The report states that 21.4% of adolescents face moderate or high risk, with 10.3% at moderate risk and 11.1% at high risk. Notably, schools in Guwahati and Deoghar showed a higher proportion of adolescents at high risk, whereas Nagpur and Puducherry reported lower risk levels.

The study identifies digital exposure as the primary factor increasing the risk of substance use among adolescents. As technology use rises, so does the likelihood of developing addiction. Researchers argue that the more time children spend online, the greater their exposure to negative influences and risk of substance abuse. Another significant factor highlighted in the survey is the easy availability of addictive substances. Additionally, adolescents’ favorable attitudes towards substance use further elevate the risk. Other important influences include school environment, socio-economic status, and individual personality traits, all of which contribute to drawing adolescents toward substance use, according to the report. The study emphasizes the need for multi-level interventions for prevention. It suggests that community-based efforts and peer-led initiatives among adolescents could effectively reduce this problem.