RISK FACTORS AND CONSEQUENCES OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS

Introduction : Alcoholism is the recent trend among college students. Peer pressure, stress, depression are some factors that drive these students to practice this social evil. Under intoxication, consequences are grave. Drunk and driving, road traffic accidents, legal issues, antisocial activities are some of them, that has proved alcoholism a public menace. Objective : To assess the risk factors and consequences of alcohol consumption among adolescents. Materials and Methods : A survey was carried out in the colleges under NITTE University. Students present at the day and time of visit were covered. A questionnaire was prepared comprising of a set of 14 questions covering the main objective of the survey. The students were asked to fill the questionnaire irrespective of their gender or whether they consume alcohol or not. Results : From the survey, we found that social gatherings and lifestyle adaptation are major factors that prompt students to consume alcohol. Peer pressure, stress and parents influence are other factors. The consequences observed are legal issues and family problems. But majority didn't seem to face any grave problems due to alcohol intoxication. Conclusions : According to our study, more than 55% of the subjects that consume alcohol do so due to peer pressure, academic stress and emotional stress. Also, more than quarter of those consuming alcohol are involved in road traffic accidents and other legal issues, as well as having familial problems.