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'One-third' of songs contain references to substance abuse

Research has shown that references to substance abuse in modern music are extremely common.

A study led by Dr Brian Primack at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that around one-third of popular songs include some reference to explicit drug, alcohol or tobacco use.

And researchers also found that most of the lyrics pertained to benefits rather than negative outcomes of substance abuse.

They further noted that references varied heavily depending on the genre of the music assessed. While nine per cent of pop songs contained references, 77 per cent of rap songs alluded to the subject.

The researchers examined the lyrics of Billboard magazine's 279 most popular songs of 2005.

In the study, which was published in the February issue of Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, the writers noted that further research is necessary to "determine the potency of exposure" and "determine the effects" of the messages.

Earlier this month the United Nations' anti-drugs chief denounced UK celebrities including Amy Winehouse and Kate Moss for glorifying drug use and contributing to devastation in West Africa.

Article originally published on 01/04/2008 by DryOutNow.com, the alcohol specific website for Addiction Advisor

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