Underage Drinking in Malta Revealed in Latest WHO Report

Apr 25 2024

A concerning WHO/Europe report reveals that substance use among adolescents is increasing globally, with alarming figures emerging from small countries like Malta and larger ones like England. The study, derived from data covering 280,000 children, highlights that in Malta, even at the young age of 11, alcohol consumption is notable: 10% of girls and 14% of boys have already had alcohol.

Furthermore, England ranks highest for underage drinking among the surveyed regions, pointing to a widespread issue of early alcohol exposure among children. The report forms part of the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey and shows that across Europe, central Asia, and Canada, more than half of 15-year-olds have tried alcohol, and about 20% are recent e-cigarette users.

This troubling trend is compounded by a closing gender gap in substance use, with girls increasingly matching or exceeding boys in rates of smoking, drinking, and vaping by age 15. The data suggests a shift in traditional patterns and a growing need for targeted prevention strategies.

Such findings emphasise the importance of robust prevention measures to protect young people. Strategies might include stricter control over the sale and marketing of alcohol and tobacco products, banning flavoured e-cigarettes, and combating targeted advertising that normalises substance use among youth. The aim is clear: to shield adolescents from the adverse effects of these harmful substances and promote a healthier future.

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Dog Goes Viral for Looking Like Snoopy

Apr 25 2024

In today’s world, where social media is king, even pets can become stars. One such star is a Mini Sheepadoodle named Bayley, who has become an internet sensation because she looks just like Snoopy, the famous cartoon dog from “Peanuts”.

Bayley, who will be three years old in May, has over 405,000 followers on her Instagram account, @bayley.sheepadoodle. She shares many features with Snoopy, such as a white face and muzzle, a unique oblong face shape, round black nose, and floppy black ears.

Although Snoopy is a beagle, Bayley is a blend of an Old English Sheepdog and a Miniature Poodle, sometimes called a Sheepapoo, Sheepadoo, or Sheepoodle. Mini Sheepadoodles like Bayley are known for being gentle, loving, and playful, making them great companions for kids and other pets.

Snoopy first appeared in Charles M. Schulz’s “Peanuts” comic strip in October 1950 and has been a beloved character in films, TV specials, and even as a giant balloon in New York City’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Now, Bayley is bringing Snoopy’s look to life for a whole new generation of fans on social media.

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Blood-Covered Horses Charge Through Central London

Apr 25 2024

In central London, a startling incident occurred when two horses, part of a group of five from the Household Cavalry, suddenly charged through the streets. This happened during a routine morning exercise in the Belgravia area. The animals were reportedly startled by the loud noise of builders dropping rubble nearby, causing them to bolt.

British Defence Minister James Cartlidge reported that while three horses were unharmed, two suffered serious conditions and are currently under close watch by vets at Hyde Park barracks. The names of the affected horses are Vida and Quaker.

The scene was quite dramatic, with onlookers shocked as the horses, one bleeding visibly, dashed into traffic. Emergency services were quick to respond, treating four people for minor injuries caused by the chaos. The horses eventually were safely captured by the City of London Police.

Lieutenant Colonel Matt Woodward, from the cavalry, explained that the daily exercises are meant to help the horses get used to city noises. He reassured the public that such incidents are rare and measures are being taken to prevent future occurrences. He also thanked the public for their understanding during such unexpected events.

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Athens Turns Orange After Saharan Dust Storm

Apr 25 2024

Recently, Athens and other parts of Greece were engulfed in a thick orange haze, caused by a massive dust storm from the Sahara Desert. This phenomenon, one of the most intense since March 2018, reduced visibility and sunlight across the region. Authorities have raised concerns about the potential health risks, especially for people with existing health conditions, due to increased levels of fine pollution particles in the air.

The dust storm was driven by strong southerly winds, which also led to unseasonal wildfires in southern Greece. Although these fires were swiftly managed without significant damage or injuries, they added to the environmental challenges faced by the country.

The Greek weather service has forecasted that the skies will begin to clear soon. In the meantime, residents have been advised to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid the adverse effects of the dust. This natural occurrence illustrates how large dust particles from the Sahara can travel thousands of kilometres, affecting air quality far beyond the desert’s borders.

Cover Photo Source: CNN

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