Alcohol among young people in Iraq: a systematic scoping review

Abstract

IntroductionYoung people in Iraq are exposed to conflict and trauma, and to alcohol references in uncensored international TV and media. Previous regional reviews indicate that alcohol is the least studied substance in Arab countries and no data on young people in Iraq were identified. Accordingly, we re-examined the scope of available literature on alcohol and Iraqi young people, including in studies where alcohol was not the primary focus.MethodsFive major international databases (MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (OVID), PsycINFO (OVID), Scopus, Web of Science) and one local Iraqi database (Iraqi Academic Scientific Journals (IASJ)) were systematically searched for published articles up to 16 September 2019. Original articles that included any alcohol data on general Iraqi young or student samples were included.ResultsThirteen articles met the inclusion criteria from a total of 3374 results. All studies were cross-sectional and quantitative. Most alcohol data were incidental rather than the focus of the studies. All but two studies used face-to-face or pen-and-paper surveys. Each study reported on alcohol differently—with most not using validated tools. A wide range of drinking prevalence was reported (2.2%–23.7%). Studies reported a relatively high rate (12.2–56%) of alcohol misuse among those that drink. Alcohol was associated with risky behaviour in the two studies that reported on this measure.ConclusionResults suggest a low prevalence of drinking compared to non-Muslim Majority Countries (non-MMCs), and a relatively high prevalence of risk amongst drinkers. More research is needed using study methods and validated screening or diagnostic tools tailored for the local Iraqi context.