Researchers from University of California, San Diego developed the study
AMARILLO, TEXAS -- A new study developed by the University of California, San Diego shows that teen drinking may cause permanent damage.
The research team compared the brains of those teens who drink with those who do not drink at all. The results show that teens who drink failed memory tests, and along gender lines. Boys had shorter attention spans, and girls were found to have impairments with subjects like mathematics.
One local Amarillo alcohol awareness organization we spoke with agreed with the research and is glad it exists.
"I think it's very important for this kind of research to continue because it shows that alcohol is not jus something to brush off. It actually can cause brain damage to our teens and cause them long term social problems, and educational problems," said Stephanie Clayton, A.I.S.D. Grant to Reduce Alcohol Abuse.
One interesting note; much of the damage occurs because the adolescent brain isn't fully developed until the mid 20's. The research shows that drinking during those years increases the chance of permanent brain damage.
For a more detailed look at this study check out Michelle Trudeau's article from NPR.
