This study is a first look at the association between alcohol-branded merchandise and initiation of alcohol use in teens.

This study raises concern about the relationship between the products that promote alcohol brands and early-onset teen drinking.

Our research found that students who owned an alcohol-branded item were significantly more likely to have initiated alcohol use than students who did not own one. We recommend that parents discourage their children from wearing these products and that schools limit the display of alcohol-branded items among students.

In light of a recent study that seems to indicate a direct correlation between alcohol advertising and increased teen drinking and another study showing the numbers of people, other than teen drivers, being killed in crashes involving teens, it's more important than ever before to make sure there is a dialogue with teens about issues that could impact their futures. Whether teens spend time at a bowling alley, a friend's house, a coffee shop, or online text-messaging, The Spot shows teens that it is up to them to make sure their 'spot' is filled with positive influences and not with harmful substances.

Our study also suggests that use of alcohol-based hand gels may play an important role in decreasing respiratory illness transmission in the home.

While much is known about the college study use of alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana and other illicit drugs, we've not had a handle of the abuse of prescription drugs.