Assessment of alcohol use and its associated factors among adults residing at Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, India

Background: Alcohol consumption was accepted social practice since ancient times. Presently, alcohol consumption is pervasive and has been consistently increasing throughout the world. Alcohol consumption is considered as world’s third largest risk factor for the occurrence of disease and disability. The objective of the study was to assess the burden of alcohol use and the factors associated for the alcohol consumption among adults residing at Dakshina Kannada district. Methods: This community based cross sectional study was conducted among adults aged more than 18 years in Dakshina Kannada district to assess the burden and correlates of alcohol consumption. A total of 355 participants were selected randomly and data was collected by using pretested questionnaire which includes sociodemographic details, alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) questionnaire and associated factors. Data was analyzed by using SPSS software and the statistical significance level was fixed at p<0.05. Results: The prevalence of alcohol use was 30.7%, and it was higher among males (37.1%) compared to females (8.8%). Even the alcohol use was higher among those participants, who were employed, tobacco users and was having any existing disease. As per AUDIT risk level, maximum (49.5%) alcohol users belonged to low risk (zone I) with AUDIT score less than 8. Conclusions: The burden of alcohol consumption among adults in Dakshina Kannada district is nearly one -third of the population, which is quite high. The highest prevalence was found among males and tobacco users.