The Association Between Substance Use Prevalence and Youth Mortality: A Comparative Study of Selected EU Countries

INTRODUCTION: Psychoactive substance use constitutes a significant determinant of morbidity and mortality among adolescent and emerging adult populations across European Union member states. This study aims to examine associations between substance use prevalence and drug-induced mortality rates, with a focus on age- and gender-specific disparities and spatiotemporal patterns across selected EU countries.

METHODS: The research design employed a quantitative descriptive-comparative analysis of EMCDDA and EUDA datasets spanning the years 2010–2022, complemented by predictive modelling using linear regression (OLS). Mortality rates were standardised per million inhabitants and stratified by gender, age group, and geographic region to identify high-risk cohorts.

RESULTS: Findings reveal substantial heterogeneity in drug-induced mortality, with the highest rates recorded in Germany, Spain, and Sweden, and a marked predominance among males aged 15–44 years. Forecasting indicates a continuing upward trend in mortality, particularly among young males, underscoring the urgent need for targeted prevention and treatment interventions.

CONCLUSIONS: Substance use among youth remains a pressing public health concern, characterised by pronounced demographic and regional disparities requiring a multidimensional approach. This study makes a significant contribution to the understanding of drug-related mortality in Europe. It provides an analytical framework to support the development of targeted public health policies and harm reduction strategies.