P01-334 - Alcohol use and Related Problems: a Cross-cultural Analysis

Abstract

Background

The pattern of alcohol use might differ among people of different ethnic groups. Differences in alcohol use and related problems among undergraduates of various ethnic groups - Belarusians, Arabians and Nigerians in Belarus were examined.

Methods

Altogether, 1345 Belarusian, 120 Arabian and 84 Nigerian undergraduates participated in a randomized anonymous study using the AUDIT questionnaire, including other alcohol related questions.

Results

Overall, 91.1% Belarusian, 63.3% Arabian and 56.9% Nigerian alcohol users were identified. A total of 16.3% Belarusians, 32.5% Arabians and 22.7% Nigerians were problem drinkers. Beer was the most preferred alcoholic beverage among the general undergraduates’ population of all ethnicities.

Conclusion

Differences in the pattern of alcohol use and related problems exist among the undergraduate population of various ethnicities in Minsk, Belarus. The Belarusians had higher percentages of alcohol users, but relatively lower proportion of problem drinkers, compared to the Arabs and Nigerians. No significant differences were noted in the preference for alcoholic beverages among all ethnicities.