Illicit alcohol consumption and its associated factors among patrons in Zambia: a cross-sectional analytical study
Cosmas Zyambo, Masauso Moses Phiri, Richard Zulu, Musawa Mukupa, Kumbulani Mabanti, Tulani Francis L. Matenga, Angela Maria Rizzo, Anna Hainze, Ahmed Ogwell, Dhally M. Menda, Fastone Goma, Tom Achoki
Abstract
Introduction Illicit alcohol consumption is prevalent globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where formal regulatory systems are weak or less enforced. Consumption of illicit alcohol has serious consequences, both immediate and long-term. Objective To examine the socio-demographic and behavioral factors associated with the consumption of illicit alcohol among the patrons in selected urban and peri-urban areas in Zambia. Methods This was a cross-sectional study. Illicit alcohol consumption status, socio-demographics and behavioral factors were assessed. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (AOR) at a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Of the 416 patrons who participated, 71.2% consumed illicit alcohol (Men, 75.3% vs. women 54.7%). More than 66.8% reported needing a drink first thing in the morning, 50.2% have had problems with friends due to alcohol and 19% did indicate having visited the hospital due to a drinking problem. In multivariable analysis, factors significantly associated with decreased odds of illicit alcohol consumption were females (AOR) 0.38 (95% CI: 0.20–0.73, p = 0.003), Ndola city (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12–0.62, p = 0.002), drinking pattern of 2–3 days a month (AOR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06–0.53, p = 0.002) and incomes above K10,000 (AOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.19–0.85, p = 0.017). The inability to stop drinking (AOR = 2.86, 95% CI: 1.22–6.69, p = 0.016) had an increased odds of illicit alcohol consumption. Conclusion Our findings underscore the high prevalence of illicit alcohol consumption among the patrons. Addressing illicit alcohol consumption requires a multifaceted set of interventions that consider the various factors contributing to alcohol misuse, and focuses on prevention, education, support, and community engagement.