Factors influencing alcohol intake and continued consumption among youth and adults (15-60 years) in Kabarole district: a case study of Fort Portal city

Abstract

Alcohol is has been part of human civilization for thousands of years. Therefore, this study was conducted to establish factors that influence alcohol use among youth and adults (15-60 years) in Kabarole district specifically Fort Portal municipality. The study employed a cross sectional descriptive study design, quantitative in nature, SPSS for analysis, involved youth of 16-30 Years and adults 31-60 years who were residing in Fort Portal town. The study adopted random sampling procedure and data was collected using Interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. This research involved 150 respondents from whom 59.0% were male and 41.0% female. Majority (67.0%) were youth of thirty years and below. More than half were married and 28% were single. 80.0% were working while 67.0% were Christians. The main reason for continued consumption was the need to catch up with friends, quench thirst and catch-up on latest news while drinking. The choices of drinks were majorly determined by the price and the fact that friends enjoyed the same drink. Drinking alcohol was common in bars and at social gatherings and this drinking did not discriminate because young adults and women allowed to drinking at the same functions. It was established as well that residents in Fort Portal city were knowledgeable of effects of alcohol consumption on health, relationships and work. Alcohol in Fort Portal is carries connotations of pleasure and sociability in the minds of man, harmful consequences of its use are diverse and widespread. Residents in the area were knowledgeable of all these attributes and therefore it remains to be seen among them reducing the danger caused by these drinks. To reduce the harm caused by alcohol, policies and laws need to take into account specific situations in different societies. The sale of alcoholic beverages to persons under 18 years should be prohibited and policies enforced, severe punishments be instituted again those who break the law.