Substance use in youth linked to long-term bone and memory issues

Research indicates that substance use during adolescence and early adulthood can lead to significant long-term health complications, specifically affecting bone density and cognitive function.

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Athanasios Tsoutsanis notes that alcohol consumption during formative years undermines skeletal resilience by blocking the proper development and natural renewal of bone cells. Since peak bone mass is typically reached between ages 20 and 25, early alcohol use can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.

A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health, which tracked over 16,000 individuals in the United States, found a correlation between heavy substance use in one's 20s and memory impairment by age 50 or 60. The research suggests that frequent alcohol consumption, smoking, and cannabis use during the ages of 18 to 30 are linked to higher probabilities of reporting memory issues in middle and older age.