The Secret Lives of Teens: Why Doctors Need to Ask You (Not Your Parents) About Substance Use Before Surgery

Featured paper: Efficacy of an expanded preoperative survey during perioperative care to identify illicit substance use in teenagers and adolescentsWhat if your teen's secret substance use could turn a routine surgery into a dangerous risk? In this episode, we uncover a groundbreaking study revealing why parents vastly underestimate their children's alcohol, marijuana, and vaping habits—reporting rates as low as 2% while teens admit to 27.6% for alcohol alone. Discover how anonymous iPad surveys in the waiting room unlock honest answers, why private screening is essential for safe anesthesia, and how hidden substance use can complicate perioperative care and increase overdose risks. We explore the SBIRT model for early intervention, why teens don't always see alcohol as a "drug," and how this research is transforming how hospitals protect young patients. Join us for a candid look at adolescent health secrets and why doctors need to ask teens directly—not their parents—to ensure safer surgeries and better outcomes. Essential listening for parents, teens, and healthcare providers navigating the hidden world of youth substance use.*Disclaimer: This content was generated by NotebookLM and has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Tram.*