Latvia

Key results 2015 (limited comparability)

As a precautionary measure related to methodological issues the comparability of the Latvian data has been considered limited. The most striking difference for the eight key variables presented was that lifetime use of inhalants was clearly more commonly reported by the Latvian students compared to the ESPAD average (18 % and 7 %, respectively). In relative terms, lifetime use of NPS was also more common in Latvia. The results for cigarette use and heavy episodic drinking in the last 30 days were slightly above average, while alcohol use in the last 30 days was slightly below average. For lifetime use of cannabis, illicit drugs other than cannabis and tranquillisers or sedatives without prescription the results were more or less in line with the ESPAD average. Apart from the fact that use of inhalants was more commonly reported in Latvia, the overall impression is that the substance-use habits of Latvian students are of more or less the same magnitude as those of the average ESPAD student.

Country facts:
Area: 64600 km2
Population: 2,2 million