Is religion or culture the key feature in changes in substance use after leaving school?
At age 14-15 abstinence was high in the largely British-born generation of Asians mainly for cultural reasons common to religious groups. Four years later culturally determined abstinence has atrophied, and abstinence reflects the specific influence of ascetic religious traditions, though some cultural influence remains in that women are more affected. Intergenerational changes are similar. The erosion of constraints on smoking presents a threat to health.
Higher levels of plasma selenium might increase the risk of metabolic syndrome and elevated fasting plasma glucose. Selenium supplements should be used with prudence for CVD and cancer prevention.