Factors associated with risky alcohol consumption in Hungarian university students

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Considerable amount of students consume excessive amount of alcohol on a regular basis during their university studies, with known health and academic consequences. This study explores the reasons for this behavior and how mental health and physical fitness influence the process. Methods Risky alcohol consumption (AUDIT), mental health (DASS-21) and physical fitness (IFIS) were assessed with standardized questionnaires. Hierarchical binary logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effects of university-related factors job, scholarship, living location during term, study years, controlled for demographics (age, gender, marital status) and health status (BMI, stress, anxiety, depression, and physical fitness) on the likelihood that students have risky alcohol consumption. Results 520 university students were surveyed, mean age of 22.16 (2.80) years (66.2% female). 28.1% of the students showed risky alcohol consumption. Logistic regression revealed that among college students being male and young increases the likelihood of risky drinking. Mental health was not found to be an adverse factor, while physical fitness was not found to be a contributing factor. Conclusions These results suggest changes associated with university life do not necessarily lead to unhealthy alcohol consumption. To prevent it, the effectiveness of university alcohol policies might be examined.