Knowledge of effects of drinking alcohol and attitude towards anti-substance use campaign among school students in Ajman, UAE

ABSTRACT

Alcohol consumption is an important epidemiological problem affecting health and is on a rise among the adolescents. Knowledge about effects of alcohol consumption and attitude towards anti-substance use campaign among school students in Ajman, UAE was assessed. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among students in four schools in Ajman, grades IX-XII. A pre-tested, close-ended questionnaire relating to knowledge of health and social effects of alcohol and attitude towards anti-substanceuse campaign was administered to the students. Chi-square test was applied to determine association between variables using SPSS.19. 411 students between 15-17 years of age participated [Male students constituted 55.7%, mean age 15.65 +/- 1.1 years], 375 [91.2%] students indicated alcohol consumption was harmful that. 288 [70.1%] were aware of the use alcohol among school students. Severe health-associated risk was attributed to drinking alcohol by 63%. About 334 [81.3%] responded that social problems were associated with alcohol consumption. Common social problems mentioned were problems with parents, friends, and teachers, and the other effects included poor academic performance. Female students were more aware of the reasons for initiation and health and social problems than the males [p<0.05]. Television, internet and newspaper constituted the most common source of their knowledge. About 66% had advised individuals to quit the habit; about 21.2% students had participated in anti-substance use campaigns. Media. Seminars and workshops in schools were the possible ways suggested for increasing awareness. 81% were willing to organize and participate in anti-substance use campaign in their school. High proportions of students were aware of the harmful effects of alcohol and had positive attitude towards anti-substance use campaigns that are necessary to reduce unhealthy behaviors among adolescents