Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Related to Alcohol use among Undergraduate Students

Abstract

Background: The increasing production, distribution, and promotion of alcohol have seen drink-related problems emerging as a major public health concern in India, especially in college-going young adults. The percentage of the population drinking alcohol aged less than 21 years has increased from 2% to more than 14% in the past 15 years as revealed by Alcohol and Drugs Information Centre India. Objective: The objective is to evaluate knowledge about alcohol intake, attitude and practice methods toward alcohol consumption in undergraduates. Materials and Methods: A total of 500 undergraduates from engineering and medical streams were included in the study. Undergraduates were given a validated Student Alcohol Questionnaire. Information given by the students was analyzed. Results: 93% of students believe that many people drink to escape from problems, loneliness, and depression. 54% of students think that responsible drinking can result in relaxation, enhanced social interactions, and feeling of well-being. 74% of students' opinion is that many people drink because of peer group pressures and to gain adult status. About 76% of students agreed to the statement that approximately 10% of fatal highway accidents are alcohol related. Only 22% of students are aware of the fact that blood alcohol content of 0.1% is the legal definition of alcohol intoxication in driving. Alcohol was consumed by 31% of males and 17% of females at least once in their lifetime. 70% of boys and 64% of girls of those who consumed alcohol had experienced vomiting and hangover. Twenty (4%) students reported that they drove car after having several drinks or involved in a fight at least once in their lifetime. Conclusion: There is a necessity for more studies to evaluate the reason for increasing inclination of students toward the consumption of alcohol.