Alcohol use among Bhutanese refugees in Nepal

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore factors associated with alcohol use disorders (AUDs) among Bhutanese refugees in Nepal, where there has been a mass third-country resettlement operation in place since 2007. Design/methodology/approach – A case-control study was conducted in which the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) was used to confirm AUDs and participants’ eligibility for placement in a case or control group. A translated questionnaire measuring demographic variables and context of drinking was also administered. Findings – In total, 128 questionnaires were completed (32 cases, 96 controls). Compared to participants without AUDs, those with AUDs were more likely to be older (36-50 years) (OR=10.5, 95 per cent CI 2.17-50.81), (50+years) (OR=10.3, 95 per cent CI 2.02-52.71), illiterate (OR=7.3 (2.80-18.42)), use tobacco (smoking or chewing) (OR=4.3 (1.84-10.01)) and be male (OR=3.5 (1.35-8.67)). Reasons for excessive alcohol use included unemployment, unoccupied time and increased family tensions. Originality/value – The study is the first of which the authors are aware that attempts to examine risk factors associated with AUDs within the context of a mass resettlement operation where camp services are winding down. The findings of this study suggest that greater attention needs to be given toward creating meaningful activities for adult, less educated male migrants awaiting resettlement.