Characteristics and Factors Associated with Problem Drinking in Male Workers

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the characteristics and factors related to problem drinking in male workers. METHODS: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional survey and 232 male workers, who completed self-reported questionnaires addressing alcohol consumption, drinking motives, job stress, supervisor/coworker support, and family support. Multivariate analysis was used to uncover factors associated with problem drinking. RESULTS: As compared with normal alcohol users, problem drinkers were more likely to smoke and had greater family support and coping motivations, and fewer confirmatory motives. Problem drinking was found to be related to perceived health status (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.64, 0.95]), current smoking (adjusted OR = 2.79, 95% CI [1.26, 6.18]), family support (adjusted OR = 2.04, 95% CI [1.23, 3.39]), confirmatory motivation (adjusted OR = 0.60, 95% CI [0.37, 0.96]), and coping (adjusted OR = 1.79, 95% CI [1.04, 3.07]). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that any interventions targeting problem drinking among male workers must address smoking cessation, control of stress, and the improvement of drinking subculture in the workplace.