St. LOUIS (KMOX) - A local study finds early substance abuse may be linked to lower educational achievement.

Washington University researchers — led by Julia Grant — looked at data from more than six thousand twins and found that those who began drinking or using drugs as young teens or who became dependent on alcohol, nicotine or marijuana early in life were less likely to finish college than those who didn’t.

“Particularly the early substance use is likely to have very long-term effects on educational attainment  but other lifetime milestones as well.”

Such as marriage, parenthood and employment. Grant says this study provides further evidence that it is critical to continue public health efforts to reduce underage drinking, smoking and use of drugs.