When it comes to health and lifestyle choices, Irish teens are setting a strong example compared to their peers across Europe.
A new report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Health at a Glance: Europe 2024, highlights some impressive stats about 15-year-olds in Ireland.
Let’s start with the positives.
Among 15-year-olds:
- Smoking rates are the lowest in the EU, with just 7% of teens taking up the habit. Cannabis use is also among the lowest, at only 4%.
- Teen drinking is under control, with only 13% reporting repeated drunkenness – a figure that’s one of the lowest across Europe.
- Physical activity is thriving, placing Ireland in the top five EU countries for teens meeting recommended activity levels.
- HPV vaccination rates are a standout, with over 60% of boys getting vaccinated in 2023. Ireland is one of only eight EU countries to hit that milestone.
It’s not all perfect, though; nearly half of 15-year-olds (47%) admit to skipping fruits and veggies daily. While this is slightly better than the EU average of 56%, it’s still not great.
Other areas include:
- Weight struggles, with 20% of teens being overweight or obese – close to the EU average of 21%.
- Sugar-sweetened drink consumption, which is lower than average at 8%, thanks in part to Ireland’s Sugar-Sweetened Drinks Tax introduced in 2018. This tax has helped cut sugar intake from fizzy drinks significantly, dropping from 5kg per person in 2018 to under 4kg in 2022.
Colm Burke, Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drug Strategy, said he is encouraged by the progress but says there’s still work to do.
“Ireland has long been a leader in reducing smoking, and we’re aiming for a tobacco-free Ireland by raising the minimum age to buy tobacco to 21,” he said.
“Efforts to curb alcohol-related harm and invest in drug prevention programmes are also paying off.
“On the nutrition front, initiatives like a new Safefood campaign are in the works to promote healthier eating habits.
“Additionally, Ireland is doubling down on ways to keep people active, with programmes like Active School Flag and Parkrun, plus upgrades to outdoor swimming spots and walking tracks. A National Physical Activity Framework is set to guide even more progress in 2025.
“The high HPV vaccination rates are also a point of pride. We’re fortunate to have access to safe, effective vaccines,” Burke said. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of the protection they offer.”
Ireland’s teens are leading the way on several key health fronts, but staying on track means continuing to invest in better nutrition, active lifestyles, and prevention programmes.
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