Perceived Social Benefits, Effects of Cigarette Smoking and Alcoholic Beverages Consumption on Nutritional Status of Road Transport Workers in Lagos

Abstract

Background: The influence of cigarette smoking and alcoholic beverages consumption on health and nutrient intake and its effect on metabolic processes has been well elucidated in the literature. Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the perceived benefits and effects of cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption on nutritional status of road transport workers in Lagos State, Nigeria. Method: A total of 205 male transport workers were selected using quota and random sampling method. Socioeconomic data and dietary intake, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption pattern were assessed using pretested interviewer administered questionnaire, 24 hour dietary recall and anthropometry protocol. Results: Findings show that their mean age and weight were 32.8 years and 64kg respectively. The mean energy and protein intake were 2029 kcal/day and 81.7g/day. Energy intake met only 70% of RDA but alcohol was found to significantly (P<0.05) affect the intake of energy giving nutrients. Also intake of micronutrients such as calcium, iron, vitamin B2 and vitamin B3 were all lower than their RDA. 51.2% of the subjects were cigarette smokers and alcoholics. Different reasons were perceived by subjects for cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption, which includes boosting sexual power (35%), suppressed cold (56.8%), increased confidence (29.4%), taken for fun (43.2%), prevents sleeping at work (24.8%), and boosting of energy at work (35.6%). Smoking and alcohol consumption significantly affect their BMI (P<0.05) and 30.8% of the subjects were underweight, 18% were overweight, while 3.9% were obese. Conclusion: Cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption impaired appetite, nutrient utilization and bioavailability, energy intake and bring about future health problems.