KINGSTON, Jamaica – Principal Director in the Prevention, Public Education and Treatment Branch at the National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA), Collette Kirlew, is imploring parents to play an active role in steering their children away from alcohol use.

She told JIS News that active parental involvement is essential in combating underage drinking and its potential long-term health impacts.

“Parents must pay close attention to their children. Investigate changes in behaviour, attitude, hygiene, friends and academic performance. By practising ‘talk, listen, care’, parents can create open dialogue and build trust with their children,” she noted.

Kirlew emphasised that alcohol consumption is not just a legal or social issue, but a significant public health challenge.

“The more you consume, the greater your risk of developing one of seven types of cancer, including breast cancer in women, throat and liver cancers,” she pointed out, referencing findings from the World Health Organization (WHO).

To combat early exposure, the NCDA encourages parents to engage their children in prosocial activities that promote healthy development and reduce the likelihood of harmful behaviours.

Schools and educators are urged to provide information and a supportive environment where children can feel safe discussing concerns.

“Parents and educators must work together to provide youth with engaging, alcohol-free activities and environments that discourage underage drinking,” the director said.

Kirlew pointed out that the NCDA has community-based prevention programmes, like ‘Operation Lighthouse’ and ‘Talk Di Truth’, which aim to strengthen family bonds and equip young people with life skills to resist peer pressure that may push them to use alcohol.

Individuals can access these interventions by contacting the NCDA at (876) 564-HELP (4357).

– JIS

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