Risks of heavy drinking include missed classes, lower grades, unwanted sexual intercourse, trouble with law enforcement, memory loss, injuries and sickness. Marijuana is the most common non-alcoholic drug used on the UA campus, although only a small percentage of students report using illegal drugs, including methamphetamines, cocaine and ecstasy. LSD, marijuana and ecstasy are less common. All three of Arizona's state universities require proof of vaccination against measles, mumps and rubella. In addition, Rimsza recommends that students get a flu shot in the fall, consider vaccination against hepatitis A and B and meningitis, and have a tetanus booster every 10 years.
Infectious diseases spread easily in the close contact of a college campus.
Many diseases are spread through sneezing, shaking hands and shared utensils. Prudent hand washing can reduce the spread of disease. Negative news coverage of these issues is pervasive and may serve to reinforce exaggerated misperceptions of actual substance use norms. Our awareness of this news coverage should strengthen our resolve not only to address AOD problems on campus, but also to advocate for news coverage that draws public attention to the responsible majority of college students. No official support or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Education is intended or should be inferred.