Harmful alcohol consumption and its predictors among drivers with Crash Related Trauma (CRT) in LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: Alcohol impaired driving is a leading cause of Crash Related Trauma (CRT) in Nigeria. Information regarding pattern of alcohol consumption among drivers presenting CRT is scarce. This study explores the pattern of harmful alcohol consumption, its demographic correlates associated with risky driving behaviour among recuperating drivers in a tertiary hospital in Oshogbo, Nigeria. Methods: The study crosssectional study of recuperating patients presenting Crash Related Trauma (CRT) at the accident ward and the physiotherapy unit of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. The recuperating drivers responded to the Risky driving behaviour scale, Alcohol disorder screening tool and sociodemographic questionnaire. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses at p and #8804;0.05. Results: Findings revealed that less than half of the victims were daily drinkers and 28% were heavy drinkers. The prevalence of hazardous drinking was 37.3%. Age of driver, gender, religious affiliation and driving experience were associated with harmful alcohol intake. Gender (male sex); driving experience, high alcohol consumption rates and alcohol related problems predicted risky driving behaviour. Conclusion: There is high prevalence of alcohol dependency among drivers recuperating from CRT. Drug rehabilitation for Alcoholics should be inculcated in the management of CRT victims.