This report presented the results of a study carried out in 1996 among secondary school students aged between 16 and 18 years in the Midland Health Board area. From 12 randomly-selected secondary schools, a sample of 1,654 pupils (892 males and 762 females) completed a questionnaire in school under exam conditions. The survey included questions on smoking, use of alcohol and illicit drugs, sexual behaviour, and knowledge of sexuality. It was found that 34% of the sample classed themselves as current smokers, 10% were ex-smokers and 56% said they were nonsmokers.

No difference in smoking rates between males and females was noted. Of the sample, 88% said they had consumed alcohol on at least one occasion, with no significant difference between males and females. It was found that 27% of the sample reported they had taken illicit drugs, with marijuana being the most common drug of misuse. Males were found to be more likely to have taken illicit drugs. Of those surveyed, 40% said they had been offered illicit drugs. The report outlined the Midland Health Board's measures for dealing with issues of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use; these measures emphasised education and information services.