Department of Pediatrics, Ludhiana Academy of Pediatrics and Adolescent Health Academy today organized a declamation contest in Pediatrics Seminar Room as part of World Teenage Day celebrations. The theme for contest “Booze and Abuse-either lose them or lose yourself” was introduced to the audience by Professor & Head of Pediatrics-Dr HS Bains

The speakers, during the contest, highlighted about various social and physical issues related with alcohol use by adolescents. It was mentioned that adolescents between the age group of 12 to 17 years, who use alcohol, are more likely to report many emotional and behavioral problems including fighting, aggressive and criminal behavior, stealing, driving under the influence of alcohol, skipping school, feeling depressed, and deliberately trying to hurt or kill themselves.

  The judges during the contest were Dr Daljit Singh, Dr RS Sibia, Dr TS Gambhir and Dr S Likhi. The judges felt that many teens start drinking due to peer pressure from their fellow beings and atmosphere prevalent at their homes. The influence of friends often causes teens to become alcoholics and this should be avoided and replaced with positive peer pressure. The parents of such teenagers need to play a very important role if they want their children to get rid of their addiction problems. The parents need to keep a close eye on their children’s behavior.

The first, second and third prize was bagged by Dr Karandeep Singh, Dr Tanya and Dr Mandeeep Singh.

Others present on the occasion were Dr A S Chawla, Dr S S Bedi and Dr NS Toor and faculty members of Pediatrics Department.