A nationwide survey shows that underage drinking has become a major public health threat in China. In the past two years, some 30,000 middle school students have participated into the poll that shows more than half of them have tried alcohol at least once.

Almost 40% percent of those surveyed admitted that they consumed alcohol at least once in the past year. 1 in five said they drank alcohol in the past month. And around 15%  admitted to heavy drinking on a regular basis. Most underage drinking in China occurs at home, at restaurants, or in karaoke bars. Surprisingly, 80% of underage drinking occured while parents or adults were present.

Experts say many Chinese parents are unaware of the risks associated with underage drinking.