The prevalence of alcohol consumption among undergraduates of Imo State University Owerri, Nigeria

Background : Alcohol consumption implies the ingestion of any alcoholic drink or beverage. When digested, alcohol is metabolized by the liver to release its active ingredient, ethanol. Alcohol misuse is a very important global health problem with a pattern of abuse varying in different parts of the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one-third of the world’s population has tasted alcohol. The health and social effects are so enormous as it predisposes to, and causes or  ggravates a wide range of diseases which can lead to death in some cases. Objective : To determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption among undergraduates of Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. Methodology : This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were  collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire,  collated, analyzed and presented using tables, bar charts and pie charts. Results : Of the 350 respondents, 63% consumed alcohol. Out of this, 42% were males, and 21% females. The average number of bottles of beer  consumed per day was two, and 63% of those who drank alcohol were  introduced to the act by friends and course mates, 21% by relatives, 12% assumed the habit based on personal decision and 3% were enticed by radio and television adverts. Amongst the respondents, 86% drank alcohol for personal enjoyment and satisfaction, 26% drank for relaxation with friends and 15% to cool off tension in times of anxiety or depression. Conclusion : The prevalence of alcohol consumption among undergraduates of Imo State University Owerri was high, with more males involved than  females. Keywords : Beer, consequences, friends, intake, misuse, students