Cross-border college drinking

Abstract

Problem: Universities have a major problem with binge drinking by students. This problem is greater for universities near national borders where underage students can cross into areas where the legal drinking age is younger than in the United States. Method: A telephone survey of students at two large universities, within an hour drive of the Mexican border, was conducted to determine the extent of the cross-border drinking problem. Results: On average, the students reported about 6.5 trips across the border to drink in the past year and indicated that when drinking in Mexico they consumed greater amounts of alcohol — more than six drinks compared to 4.5 in the United States. Summary: The study indicated that young males drank the most (8.7 drinks) when in Mexico compared to 4.7 drinks for those older than 21 years and 4.5 drinks for women younger than 21 years. Thus, young male students who are more likely to be drivers than their female comparisons drink twice as much, when in Mexico, creating a significant risk for both. Impact on Industry: Unknown, but companies near the border may wish to consider special education programs aimed at underage male employees.