Changes in alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 among First-Year University Students in Spain, considering the risk of problematic use - UniHcos Project.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on prevalence rates and self-reported changes in patterns of alcohol use among first-year university students in Spain, considering the risk of problematic alcohol use. A serial cross-sectional study based on the uniHcos project was carried out. Data from 10,518 first-year university students (73.3% female, mean age 19 (SD=1.6)) collected between 2012 and 2022 were analysed. The evolution of the pooled prevalence rates during the time series was analysed and the risk of problematic alcohol consumption was assessed using the AUDIT. Also, self-reported changes in alcohol use patterns during the pandemic were assessed. According to the results, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of alcohol use in the past 30-days was reduced (76.3% in 2019 vs. 63.7% in COVID-19) and increased again in the New Normal period. Thus, a similar pattern in the practice of binge drinking was observed. Regarding the AUDIT score, 21.7% (95%CI 20.9, 22.6) of the students had harmful alcohol consumption, with a higher proportion among males. In the multivariable logistic models, a higher AUDIT score was significantly associated (p-value<0.001) with being male and living with roommates. According to self-reported changes in consumption patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic, a higher proportion of participants with harmful use reported an increase in alcohol consumption compared to those at low-risk (43% vs 19%). Finally, despite the overall reduction in drinking prevalence during COVID-19, changes were not equal for all students and depended on their previous level of problematic drinking, highlighting that this should be considered in the development of strategies against alcohol use in this population.

Effectiveness of web-based personalised feedback interventions for reducing alcohol consumption among university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ISSUES: Meta-analysis was conducted to examine standalone web-based personalised feedback interventions (PFI) delivered in non-structured settings for reducing university students' alcohol consumption. Subgroup analyses by gender-focus, type-of-content and accessibility were conducted. Characteristics of the sample, the intervention and study quality were examined as moderators. APPROACH: Ten databases were searched from 2000 to 2023. Eligible articles involved only randomised controlled trials. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the effect size on weekly alcohol consumption comparing web-PFIs and non-active controls. Meta-regressions were applied to explore effect moderators. KEY FINDINGS: Thirty-one studies were included in the narrative synthesis, 25 of which were meta-analysed. Results found significant effect size differences on weekly alcohol consumption in favour of the intervention group in the short- (SMD = 0.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06, 0.15) and long-term period (SMD = 0.09, 95% CI 0.02, 0.15). Subgroup analyses identified that interventions which were gender-specific, multicomponent and had unlimited access had higher and significant effect sizes, although they were very similar with respect to comparative groups. Moderator analyses showed that times feedback was accessed significantly contributed to the effectiveness of the intervention. Effects diminished over time, although they remained significant. IMPLICATIONS: The meta-analysis evidences the effectiveness of web-PFI for addressing university students' alcohol use, decreasing by 1.65 and 1.54 drinks consumed per week in the short- and long-term, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results offer empirical evidence that supports the significant, although small, effect of web-PFI delivered remotely in universities. Future research should focus on increasing their impact by introducing booster sessions and content components based on students' preferences.

Process and outcome evaluation of a social norms approach intervention on alcohol use among Flemish university students: a quasi-experimental study.

BACKGROUND: Alcohol consumption is prevalent among students, with a common tendency to overestimate peers' alcohol use, contributing to increased consumption. This misperception is evident among Flemish students. This study aimed to develop and assess a Social Norms Approach (SNA) intervention targeting Flemish students to correct misperceptions and subsequently reduce alcohol use. METHODS: The 'Alcoholfacts' social media campaign was implemented using a quasi-experimental design from November 2022 to March 2023. A process evaluation followed Medical Research Council guidance, and intervention effects were evaluated using baseline and post-intervention surveys. Multiple linear regression with a Difference-in-Difference approach was performed for outcome assessment, using an intention-to-treat approach. RESULTS: The process evaluation showed that 36.3% of the intervention group had seen the campaign and that most of the exposed students found the campaign credible (73.3%). However, 54.8% of the exposed students did not find the campaign appealing. Results of the outcome assessment indicated that students of the intervention group at endline estimated students' alcohol consumption significantly lower (bootstrapped p = 0.013; B = -1.93, bootstrapped CI = -3.620 to -0.565) compared to students of the control group. However, no significant intervention effect on student's alcohol consumption was found (bootstrapped p = 0.741; B = -0.32, bootstrapped CI = -2.101 to 1.534). CONCLUSIONS: The study supports the efficacy of an SNA campaign in correcting misperceptions but did not yield an immediate reduction in alcohol consumption. Future research should involve the target group in campaign material development to enhance attractiveness and impact.

Following social media influencers who share alcohol-related content is associated with college drinking.

INTRODUCTION: Frequent exposure to peer-shared alcohol-related content (ARC) on social media is associated with greater alcohol consumption and related consequences among undergraduates. Social media influencers also share ARC; yet, the effect of exposure to influencer-shared ARC on alcohol outcomes has not been examined. The current study examined whether following influencers who share ARC and the frequency of sharing were associated with alcohol outcomes, and associations between influencer type (e.g., actors) and alcohol outcomes. METHODS: Undergraduates (N = 528) from two universities in the United States completed an online survey assessing demographics, social media use, alcohol use and related consequences. They listed up to five influencers they followed and viewed the most content from. A series of linear regression models were conducted. RESULTS: Having a larger proportion of influencers sharing ARC was associated with greater quantity, frequency and peak drinks, but not consequences. Frequency of influencers sharing ARC was associated with greater quantity and peak drinks, but not frequency or consequences. Findings remained significant, even after controlling for peer ARC. Actor ARC, everyday person ARC and 'other' type influencer ARC were associated with several alcohol outcomes. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This study added to the literature by examining how following influencers who share ARC, and sharing frequency, were associated with drinking outcomes over and above exposure to peer ARC. It also examined whether ARC content from specific types of influencers was associated with alcohol outcomes. Findings highlight that the source of ARC is relevant when studying the effects of ARC exposure on college drinking.

El consumo colectivo de alcohol en jóvenes: un estudio cualitativo con perspectiva de género / O consumo coletivo de álcool em jovens: um estudo qualitativo com perspectiva de gênero / Binge drinking in young people: a qualitative study with a gender perspective

Objective. To explore the discourses and opinions about the collective consumption of alcohol with a gender perspective in university students. Methodology. Qualitative descriptive study. Information was collected through discussion groups in Seville in February and March 2019. 32 first-year nursing students participated. For data analysis, the Taylor & Bogdan steps were followed and a matrix was used for the categorization process. Four groups were made, aged between 18-24 years.Results. The following categories were obtained: type and form of consumption, social roles and behaviors.Conclusions. Gender differences are reflected in the students' discourse, highlighting the dissimilarities in behavior between genders and the greater guilt suffered by women. The female gender is the most noted for exceeding the limits and the most vulnerable in nightlife. This suggests the need to generate interventions aimed at redefining the stereotypes of the patriarchal model associated with gender and alcohol consumption, in order to minimize risk behaviors in youth leisure.(AU)

Objetivo. Explorar los discursos y opiniones acerca del consumo colectivo de alcohol con perspectiva de género en jóvenes universitarios. Metodología. Estudio cualitativo descriptivo. La recogida de información se realizó mediante grupos de discusión en Sevilla en febrero y marzo de 2019. Participaron 32 estudiantes de enfermería de primer curso. Para el análisis de los datos se siguieron los pasos de Taylor & Bogdan y se utilizó una matriz para el proceso de categorización. Se hicieron cuatro grupos, de edad entre 18-24 años. Resultados. Se obtuvieron las siguientes categorías: tipología y forma de consumo, roles sociales y conductas. Conclusiones. Las diferencias de género quedan plasmadas en el discurso del alumnado, destacando las disimilitudes de conducta entre géneros y la mayor culpabilidad que sufren las mujeres. El género femenino es el más señalado al exceder los límites y el más vulnerable en el ocio nocturno. Esto sugiere la necesidad de generar intervenciones orientadas a resignificar los estereotipos del modelo patriarcal asociados al género y al consumo de alcohol, para minimizar conductas de riesgo en el ocio juvenil.(AU)

Objetivo. Explorar os discursos e opiniões sobre o consumo coletivo de álcool com perspectiva de gênero em estudantes universitários. Metodologia. Estudo descritivo qualitativo. As informações foram coletadas por meio de grupos de discussão em Sevilha em fevereiro e março de 2019. Participaram 32 estudantes de enfermagem do primeiro ano. Para análise dos dados, seguiramse os passos de Taylor & Bogdan e utilizouse uma matriz para o processo de categorização. Foram constituídos quatro grupos, com idades compreendidas entre os 18 e os 24 anos. Resultados. Obtiveramse as seguintes categorias: tipo e forma de consumo, papéis sociais e comportamentos.Conclusões. As diferenças de gênero se refletem no discurso dos alunos, destacandose as diferenças de comportamento entre os gêneros e a maior culpa sofrida pelas mulheres. O gênero feminino é o mais destacado por ultrapassar os limites e o mais vulnerável na vida noturna. Isso sugere a necessidade de gerar intervenções que visem a redefinição dos estereótipos do modelo patriarcal associados ao gênero e ao consumo de álcool, a fim de minimizar comportamentos de risco no lazer juvenil.(AU)

Peer-led alcohol intervention for college students: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

This study aims to assess the preliminary efficacy and feasibility of a brief, peer-led alcohol intervention to reduce alcohol consumption in binge-drinking Spanish nursing students. A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 first-year nursing students who were randomly assigned either a 50-min peer-led motivational intervention with individual feedback or a control condition. Primary outcomes for testing the preliminary efficacy were alcohol use and alcohol-related consequences. Quantitative and content analyses of open-ended survey questions were performed. Participants in the intervention condition significantly reduced binge-drinking episodes, peak blood alcohol content, and consequences compared to the control group. Principal facilitators were completing the questionnaire during the academic schedule and providing tailored feedback through a graphic report. The main barrier was the unreliability of students' initial commitment. The findings suggest that a brief motivational intervention could be effective for reducing alcohol consumption and alcohol-related consequences in Spanish college students. Peer counselors and participants reported high satisfaction, indicating that the intervention is feasible. However, a full trial should be conducted taking into account the identified barriers and facilitators.

Uso de substâncias psicoativas por universitários da área da saúde antes e durante a pandemia da covid-19: prevalência e fatores associados / Use of psychoactive substances by college students in the health sector before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: prevalence and associated factors / Uso de sustancias psicoactivas por los universitarios del área de la salud antes y durante la pandemia del COVID-19: prevalencia y factores asociados

A pandemia do coronavírus criou incertezas sobre os impactos da doença na saúde dos universitários relacionados ao padrão de uso de substâncias psicoativas. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao uso de álcool, tabaco e drogas ilícitas entre universitários da área da saúde antes e durante a pandemia da covid-19. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com inquéritos repetidos. Para determinar o padrão de uso das substâncias psicoativas, utilizou-se o Teste de Triagem do Envolvimento com Álcool, Tabaco e Outras Substâncias (ASSIST). Foi realizada a análise de regressão logística com a medida do desfecho expressa por odds ratio e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Obtiveram-se as seguintes associações para o maior consumo de substâncias psicoativas antes da pandemia: homossexuais/bissexuais e tabaco no mês; não iniciantes no curso e álcool (na vida e no mês) e drogas ilícitas na vida. Ademais, a análise ajustada dos estudantes durante a pandemia demonstrou que a associação foi mantida: homossexuais/bissexuais e tabaco na vida e no mês, álcool no mês e drogas ilícitas na vida. Concluiu-se que a universidade deve buscar a implementação de políticas de assistência estudantil, garantindo aos alunos um bem-estar físico e emocional.

The coronavirus pandemic created uncertainty about the health impacts of the disease on college students related to the pattern of psychoactive substance use. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use among university health students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a cross-sectional study, with repeated surveys. To determine the pattern of psychoactive substance use the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test ­ (ASSIST) was used. The logistic regression analysis was performed with the measurement of the outcome expressed by odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. The following associations were obtained for the highest consumption of psychoactive substance before the pandemic: homosexuals/bisexuals and tobacco in the month; non-beginners in the course and alcohol (in life and in the month), and illicit drugs in life. Furthermore, the adjusted analysis of students during the pandemic showed that the association remained: homosexuals/bisexuals and tobacco in life and month, alcohol in month, and illicit drugs in life. In conclusion, the university must seek to implement student assistance policies, guaranteeing students' physical and emotional wellbeing.

La pandemia de coronavirus produjo incertidumbres sobre las repercusiones de la enfermedad en la salud de los estudiantes universitarios relacionadas con el patrón de consumo de sustancias psicoactivas. El objetivo de este estudio es estimar la prevalencia y los factores asociados al consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas entre los estudiantes universitarios del área de la salud antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Se trata de un estudio transversal, con encuestas repetidas. Para determinar el patrón de consumo de sustancias psicoactivas, se utilizó la Prueba de Detección de Consumo de Alcohol, Tabaco y Sustancias ­ASSIST. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística con la medida de resultado expresada por odds ratio y un intervalo de confianza del 95%. Se obtuvieron las siguientes asociaciones para el mayor consumo antes de la pandemia: homosexuales/bisexuales y tabaco en el mes; no iniciados en el curso y alcohol (en la vida y en el mes) y drogas ilícitas en la vida. Además, el análisis ajustado de los estudiantes en la pandemia se mantuvo asociado con: homosexuales/bisexuales y tabaco en la vida y el mes, alcohol en el mes y drogas ilícitas en la vida. Se concluye que la universidad debe implementar políticas de asistencia a los estudiantes para garantizarles bienestar físico y emocional.

Alcohol consumption, alcohol expectancies, and drinking contexts in young Argentinean college students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a one-year follow-up study.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns are known to affect alcohol consumption. This study examines drinking expectancies and contexts upon alcohol consumption of Argentinean students.Objectives: To assess within-person changes in alcohol consumption in Argentinean college students (aged 18-24), from August 2019 with a one-year follow-up during the COVID-19 lockdown, considering alcohol expectancies, drinking contexts, and main socio-demographic variables. To validate the stability of these predictors, we discuss the effects on the alcohol consumption across dependent and independent measures.Methods: We assessed one longitudinal (N = 300, 70% female) and one cross-sectional (N = 165, 78% female) sample via online surveys and applied multilevel analysis and regressions, respectively.Results: Alcohol consumption significantly increased during lockdown compared to one-year before (mean: 6.91 and 8.26 alcohol units, correspondingly). In the longitudinal sample, social facilitation (medium effect sizes [ES]: 0.21, 0.22) and parental presence (medium ES: 0.12, 0.21) significantly and stable (through time) predicted increasing effects on consumption. In the cross-sectional sample, stress control (high ES: 0.78) and parental presence (high ES: 0.42) were associated with higher consumption during lockdown.Conclusion: College students increased their alcohol consumption during lockdown, suggesting that restrictive sanitary measures may negatively affect consumption. Literature is not conclusive as both decreases and increases in alcohol consumption in students from developed countries were reported. Before and during COVID-19 lockdown, parental presence is a stable predictor of increased alcohol consumption, though unusual according to the literature. Health policies aimed at modifying the behavior of parents who promote/share alcohol consumption with their offspring may help reduce drinking in college students.

The relationship between diet and lifestyle behaviours in a sample of higher education students; a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Transitioning into higher education (HE) impacts health behaviours. Poor dietary and lifestyle behaviours may correlate and increase risk of co-morbidities. The introduction of the Okanagan Charter detailed the important role of health promotion within a HE setting. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours of students attending HE. METHODS: Full-time students, aged 18+, were eligible to participate in this online cross-sectional study. Self-reported questions were asked in relation to demographics, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and COVID-19. A food frequency questionnaire measured dietary quality along with tools assessing alcohol use, sleep quality, perceived stress, and physical activity. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square, one-way ANOVA, independent sample t-tests, Pearson's correlation, and multivariate linear regression. RESULTS: Evidence of a correlation between poor diet quality and having a higher BMI (p = 0.040), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), poorer sleep quality (p = 0.003), higher stress levels (p = 0.006) and smoking (p = 0.001) was found. Low fruit and vegetable consumption were associated with higher BMI (p = 0.013), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), lower physical activity levels (p = 0.006), higher stress levels (p = <0.001), smoking (p = <0.001) and being male (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: This study provides data on the association between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours among HE students and will inform healthy campus initiatives.

Percepción del consumo de alcohol propio y de allegados en universitarios de primer curso como predictor del consumo a 10 años / Own and others’ perceived drinking among freshmen as predictors of alcohol consumption over 10 years

El consumo percibido por los jóvenes de sus allegados puede afectar a las expectativas respecto al consumo de alcohol y de este modo, a su propio consumo. El objetivo del estudio ha sido identificar la capacidad predictiva de la percepción de consumo de alcohol propio y de los allegados al inicio del periodo universitario, en los patrones de consumo observados a lo largo de 10 años de seguimiento. Se ha llevado a cabo un estudio de cohortes en universitarios en España (n=1.382). Consumo Intensivo de Alcohol(CIA) y Consumo de Riesgo de alcohol (CRA) se midieron con el Test de Identificación de los Trastornos debidos al Uso de Alcohol (AUDIT) a los18, 20, 22, 24 y 27 años. Se calcularon las Odds Ratios (ORs) con regresión logística multinivel para medidas repetidas. Los universitarios percibían bajo o nulo consumo de alcohol de sus familiares y mayor de sus amigos. Percibir mayor consumo de sus hermanos y amigos aumentó el riesgo de CIA en ambos géneros y de CRA en mujeres. Vivir fuera del domicilio familiar aumentó el riesgo de ambos patrones. En conclusión, la percepción del consumo de alcohol de amigos a los 18-19 años resultó la variable más influyente para el CIA en ambos géneros y el CRA en mujeres a lo largo de 10 años de seguimiento. El consumo de alcohol de los padres al inicio del periodo universitario parece no afectar a los patrones de consumo practicados durante la juventud, una vez se ajusta por el consumo de amigos y hermanos. Vivir en el domicilio familiar actúa como factor protector. Las medidas preventivas en los jóvenes deben tener un enfoque contextual incluyendo a sus allegados. (AU)

The alcohol use perceptions young people have of those close to them canaffect their expectations regarding alcohol and, thus, their own drinking. Weaim to identify the predictive ability of own and significant others’ perceiveddrinking at age 18-19 in the alcohol use patterns at 27-28. A cohort study wascarried out among university students in Spain (n=1,382). Binge Drinking(BD) and Risky Consumption (RC) were measured with the Alcohol UseDisorders Identification Test at ages 18, 20, 22, 24 and 27. Multilevel logisticregression for repeated measures was used to calculate the adjusted OddsRatios (ORs). College students perceive their family’s alcohol consumptionas very low or nothing, while the perception of their own alcohol use orthat of their friends is higher. Perceiving higher alcohol use among theirsiblings and friends increases the risk of BD for both sexes and RC forwomen. Living away from the parental home increases the risk of RC andBD. In conclusion, the perception of their friend’s alcohol use at age 18-19is the most influential variable in BD among both sexes and in RC amongmen throughout 10 years of follow-up. Parental alcohol consumption doesnot affect college student drinking patterns when friends and siblings areconsidered. Living with one’s family acts as a protective factor. Preventivemeasures focused on young people should take a contextual approach andinclude those closest to them. (AU)

Examining racial microaggressions and alcohol use among marginalized populations at a predominately white institution.

Objective: Microaggressions are brief verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities toward people of color. Methods: Cross-sectional study examining the association between demographics, alcohol culture, and witnessing or experiencing microaggressions among undergraduate students. Analysis based on the "Color of drinking" study data collected at University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI between November 2017 and January 2018. Results: African-American/Black students significantly witnessed and experienced more microaggressions than other students, with a Relative Risk Ratio (RRR) of 9.5 (CI 95%: 4.7-19.1) and a RRR of 7 (CI 95%: 3.4-14.3). For students of color, experiencing microaggressions was associated with considering leaving (RRR = 3.5, CI 95%: 2-6.2). Additionally, the witnessing and experiencing of microaggressions appears to be associated with the alcohol culture on campus. Conclusions: African-American/Black was the racial group that witnessed and suffered more microaggressions. The percentage of students witnessing microaggressions increased with the year in school. Alcohol use in the last 30 days, feeling impacted by other's use of alcohol, and avoiding certain areas due to alcohol consumption were associated with experiencing microaggressions among students of color.

Excessive alcohol consumption and binge drinking in college students.

Background: Binge drinking (BD) refers to a pattern of alcohol consumption characterized by the consumption of large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time followed by periods of abstinence. This drinking pattern is prevalent worldwide, mainly among young people. Excessive alcohol consumption is the spectrum of consumption patterns that may have or have had health consequences, and includes the concepts of risky alcohol use, harmful alcohol use and alcohol dependence according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), the latter two are currently grouped into alcohol use disorder (AUD) according to the fifth edition of the DSM (DSM-5). Due to the high prevalence of BD among young people, especially university students, as well as the important consequences of its practice, a study was conducted to evaluate excessive alcohol consumption and its relationship with the practice of BD in university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among students (aged 18-30 years) enrolled in the academic year 2018-2019 at the Faculty of Nursing at a university in northern Spain. Data collection included sociodemographic information, and alcohol use information, collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. To measure the excessive alcohol consumption, this study used the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Results: A total of 142 participants were included, of which 88.03% were women. Up to 38.03% were classified as BD. Up to 14.77% of non-BD participants and 66.67% of BD participants were classified as risky drinkers (AUDIT Total geq 8 in men or geq 6 in women) (p < 0.001). Up to 3.41% of the non-BD and 24.07% of the BD were drinkers with harmful alcohol use and probable alcohol dependence (AUDIT Total geq 13) (p < 0.001). A total of 5.68% of non-BD and 42.59% of BD were AUD drinkers (AUDIT Total geq 9 in males or geq 8 in females) (p < 0.001). In addition, statistically significant differences were found between the BD and non-BD groups in the responses to each of the AUDIT items, as well as in the total score and also in the scores of the three domains of the questionnaire. Conclusions: Excessive alcohol consumption is frequent among university students, especially among those who practice BD.

Use of psychoactive substances and mental health in university students during the covid-19 pandemic / Consumo de sustancias psicoactivas y salud mental de los estudiantes universitarios durante la pandemia de covid-19 / Uso de substâncias psicoativas e saúde mental de estudantes universitários durante a pandemia da covid-19

ABSTRACT Objective: to measure the level of psychoactive substance dependence of healthcare students from a public federal university and to verify relationships with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach carried out with 527 students from seven undergraduate courses in the health area at a federal public university in the Brazilian South region. Collection was carried out virtually by means of a questionnaire for sociodemographic and academic characterization, the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test and the Mental Health Inventory. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used for data analysis. Results: during the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the students presented occasional and suggestive of abuse consumption of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, marijuana and hypnotics/sedatives. The lowest mean mental health scores corresponded to the students who had their addiction level classified as suggestive of abuse, and the highest mean scores were found in those who did not use these substances during the pandemic (no consumption/pandemic). Conclusion: given that higher mean scores point to better mental health, it can be inferred that worse mental health is associated with higher psychoactive substance consumption.

RESUMEN Objetivo: medir el nivel de dependencia de sustancias psicoactivas entre estudiantes de salud de una Universidad Pública Federal y verificar las relaciones con la salud mental durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Método: Estudio transversal con enfoque cuantitativo realizado con 527 alumnos de siete cursos de pregrado del área de salud de una Universidad Pública Federal del sur de Brasil. La recogida se realizó de forma virtual a través de un cuestionario de caracterización sociodemográfica y académica, el Test de Detección de Consumo de Alcohol, Tabaco y Sustancias, y el Inventario de Salud Mental. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizaron estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales. Resultados: la mayoría de los estudiantes durante la pandemia de COVID-19 tenían un consumo ocasional y sugestivo de productos de tabaco, bebidas alcohólicas, marihuana e hipnóticos/sedantes. Las puntuaciones medias de salud mental más bajas fueron las de los estudiantes cuyo nivel de dependencia se clasificó como sugestivo de abuso, y las puntuaciones más altas las de aquellos que no consumieron durante la pandemia (sin consumo/pandemia). Conclusión: teniendo en cuenta que las medias más altas apuntan a una mejor salud mental, se puede deducir que una peor salud mental está asociada a un mayor consumo de sustancias psicoactivas.

RESUMO Objetivo: mensurar o nível de dependência de substâncias psicoativas dos estudantes da área da saúde de uma universidade pública federal e verificar relações com a saúde mental durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Método: estudo transversal com abordagem quantitativa realizado com 527 estudantes de sete cursos de graduação da área da saúde de uma universidade pública federal da região Sul do Brasil. A coleta foi realizada de forma virtual por meio de um questionário de caracterização sociodemográfica e acadêmica, o Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test e o Mental Health Inventory. Para análise dos dados, foi utilizada a estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados: a maioria dos estudantes, durante a pandemia da COVID-19, apresentou uso ocasional e sugestivo de abuso para derivados do tabaco, bebidas alcoólicas, maconha e hipnóticos/sedativos. As menores médias de saúde mental foram dos estudantes que tiveram seu nível de dependência classificado como sugestivo de abuso, e as maiores médias foram dos que não fizeram uso dessas substâncias durante a pandemia (sem uso/pandemia). Conclusão: tendo em vista que médias mais elevadas apontam para uma melhor saúde mental, pode-se inferir que uma pior saúde mental está associada ao maior uso de substâncias psicoativas.

Associação entre ingestão de bebida alcoólica e estado antropométrico de universitários / Association between alcohol consumption and anthropometric status of university students

Introdução: objetivamos avaliar associação entre ingestão de bebida alcoólica e estado antropométrico em estudantes que frequentam Restaurante Universitário. Metodologia: estudo transversal com 155 universitários em que foi avaliado o consumo de bebida alcoólica, frequência do consumo, tempo de consumo, quantidade e hábitos adotados enquanto bebiam. As medidas antropométricas realizadas foram estatura, peso, circunferência da cintura, circunferência do quadril e quatro dobras cutâneas (tricipital, bicipital, subescapular e suprailíaca). Para análise, realizamos estatística descritiva, o teste de qui-quadrado de independência para as proporções entre os grupos e a diferença entre as médias das medidas antropométricas de acordo a quantidade de bebida alcoólica consumida foi avaliada pelo teste ANOVA. Foram considerados significantes valores de p<0,05. Resultados: dos universitários, 63,87% eram bebedores, 23,2% dos bebedores estavam com excesso de peso, 21,2% apresentaram circunferência da cintura com risco elevado e percentual de gordura em excesso em ambos os grupos (77,8% vs. 73,2). Identificamos diferença estatisticamente para a circunferência da cintura entre o tempo de consumo (p=0,003) e entre o percentual de gordura corporal de acordo com a quantidade de bebida alcoólica consumida (p=0,001). Conclusão: o estado antropométrico dos universitários que consumiam bebida alcoólica apresentou alta frequência de excesso de peso e risco de complicações metabólicas associadas à obesidade, mesmo que sem significações estatísticas para as associações testadas.

Introduction: we aimed to evaluate the association between alcohol intake and anthropometric status in students who attend the University Restaurant. Methodology: cross-sectional study with 155 university students in which the consumption of alcoholic beverages, frequency of consumption, consumption time, quantity and habits adopted while drinking were evaluated. The anthropometric measurements taken were height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference and four skinfolds (triceps, biceps, subscapular and suprailiac). For analysis, we performed descriptive statistics, the chi-square test of independence for proportions between groups and the difference between the means of anthropometric measures according to the amount of alcoholic beverage consumed was evaluated by the ANOVA test. Significant values of p<0.05 were considered. Results: of the college students, 63.87% were drinkers, 23.2% of the drinkers were overweight, 21.2% high risk waist dissipation and fat percentage in both groups (77.8% vs. 73 ,two). We identified a statistically significant difference for waist circumference between consumption time (p = 0.003) and between body fat percentage according to the amount of alcoholic beverage consumed (p = 0.001). Conclusion: the anthropometric status of college students who drank alcoholic beverages presented a high frequency of weight and risk of metabolic complications associated with obesity, even if without statistical significance for the tested associations.

[Behavioral predisposing and social habits related to sexual life in university students]. / Predisponentes conductuales y hábitos sociales relacionados con la vida sexual en estudiantes universitarios.

Background: University students are usually a risk group in terms of their sexual life, either because of social habits or because of the behavioral predisposers to which they are exposed. This article analyse the relationship between these factors. Objective: To establish the frequency and relationship between behavioral and social predisposers with active sexual life (ASL) in university students. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study, carried out in 360 medical students. The data of sexual life and the behavioral and social factors associated with it were analyzed through prevalences with their confidence intervals, as well as the calculation of the Odds Ratio (OR). Results: The results showed that 58.9% (95%CI: 53.7%-63.9%) of the students have ever had sexual intercourse. The only behavioral predisposing associated with ASL was the absence of religious practices (OR: 2.6; 95%CI: 1.6-4.1; p < 0.001), while all the habits and social behaviors analyzed were significantly associated with ASL, the most common being attendance at parties (77.8%) and the consumption of alcoholic beverages (67.2%). Conclusions: Our results show that young people present a wide range of behavioral and social characteristics that influence their sexual life, therefore, implementing strategies aimed at protecting sexual and reproductive health is also necessary in this age group.

Introducción: los estudiantes universitarios suelen ser un grupo de riesgo en cuanto a su vida sexual, ya sea por los hábitos sociales o por los predisponentes conductuales a los que se encuentran expuestos. Este artículo analiza la relación entre estos factores. Objetivo: establecer la frecuencia y relación entre predisponentes conductuales y sociales con la vida sexual activa (VSA) en estudiantes universitarios. Material y métodos: estudio transversal, realizado en 360 estudiantes de Medicina. Los datos de la vida sexual y los factores conductuales y sociales asociados a ella, se analizaron a través de prevalencias con sus intervalos de confianza, así como con el cálculo del Odds Ratio (OR). Resultados: los resultados mostraron que el 58.9% (IC95%: 53.7%-63.9%) de los estudiantes han tenido alguna vez relaciones sexuales. El único predisponente conductual que se asoció con la VSA fue la ausencia de prácticas religiosas (OR: 2.6; IC95%: 1.6-4.1; p < 0.001), mientras que todos los hábitos y conductas sociales analizados, se asociaron significativamente con la VSA, siendo los más comúnes la asistencia a fiestas (77.8%) y el consumo de bebidas alcohólicas (67.2%). Conclusiones: nuestros resultados muestran que los jóvenes presentan una amplia gama de características conductuales y sociales que influyen en su vida sexual, por lo que, el implementar estrategias orientadas a proteger la salud sexual y reproductiva también es necesario en este grupo etario.

Predisponentes conductuales y hábitos sociales relacionados con la vida sexual en estudiantes universitarios / Behavioral predisposing and social habits related to sexual life in university students

Introducción: los estudiantes universitarios suelen ser un grupo de riesgo en cuanto a su vida sexual, ya sea por los hábitos sociales o por los predisponentes conductuales a los que se encuentran expuestos. Este artículo analiza la relación entre estos factores. Objetivo: establecer la frecuencia y relación entre predisponentes conductuales y sociales con la vida sexual activa (VSA) en estudiantes universitarios. Material y métodos: estudio transversal, realizado en 360 estudiantes de Medicina. Los datos de la vida sexual y los factores conductuales y sociales asociados a ella, se analizaron a través de prevalencias con sus intervalos de confianza, así como con el cálculo del Odds Ratio (OR). Resultados: los resultados mostraron que el 58.9% (IC95%: 53.7%-63.9%) de los estudiantes han tenido alguna vez relaciones sexuales. El único predisponente conductual que se asoció con la VSA fue la ausencia de prácticas religiosas (OR: 2.6; IC95%: 1.6-4.1; p < 0.001), mientras que todos los hábitos y conductas sociales analizados, se asociaron significativamente con la VSA, siendo los más comúnes la asistencia a fiestas (77.8%) y el consumo de bebidas alcohólicas (67.2%). Conclusiones: nuestros resultados muestran que los jóvenes presentan una amplia gama de características conductuales y sociales que influyen en su vida sexual, por lo que, el implementar estrategias orientadas a proteger la salud sexual y reproductiva también es necesario en este grupo etario.

Background: University students are usually a risk group in terms of their sexual life, either because of social habits or because of the behavioral predisposers to which they are exposed. This article analyse the relationship between these factors. Objective: To establish the frequency and relationship between behavioral and social predisposers with active sexual life (ASL) in university students. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study, carried out in 360 medical students. The data of sexual life and the behavioral and social factors associated with it were analyzed through prevalences with their confidence intervals, as well as the calculation of the Odds Ratio (OR). Results: The results showed that 58.9% (95%CI: 53.7%-63.9%) of the students have ever had sexual intercourse. The only behavioral predisposing associated with ASL was the absence of religious practices (OR: 2.6; 95%CI: 1.6-4.1; p < 0.001), while all the habits and social behaviors analyzed were significantly associated with ASL, the most common being attendance at parties (77.8%) and the consumption of alcoholic beverages (67.2%). Conclusions: Our results show that young people present a wide range of behavioral and social characteristics that influence their sexual life, therefore, implementing strategies aimed at protecting sexual and reproductive health is also necessary in this age group.

Modelos preditivos para o uso problemático de álcool entre universitários da saúde / Predictive models for the problematic use of alcohol among healthcare university students / Modelos predictivos para el uso problemático del alcohol entre las universidades de salud

OBJETIVO: identificar a prevalência e os preditores para o uso problemático de álcool entre estudantes universitários da área da saúde. Estudo transversal, realizado com 1.497 universitários de 11 cursos da saúde, na região metropolitana de Cuiabá-MT, Brasil. MÉTODO: utilizou-se o Teste para Identificação de Problemas Relacionados ao Uso de Álcool. Aplicou-se a regressão de Poisson e estimou-se a Razão de Prevalência. RESULTADOS: a prevalência de uso problemático de álcool foi de 23,6%. Identificou-se consumo problemático de álcool entre homens, solteiros, que moravam sozinhos, que se consideravam agressivos e que usavam o álcool em momentos festivos para relaxar, ter prazer e melhorar a interação social. Aquele que morava com cônjuge e/ou filhos, estava no 2º ano do curso, não percebeu mudanças no padrão de consumo na faculdade; o não participante de atléticas, que se considerava calmo e introvertido e bebia por problemas ou "nervosismo" apresentou uso problemático de álcool menos frequente. CONCLUSÃO: a busca por socialização influencia o uso de álcool entre universitários. Sugere-se que a manutenção do padrão de consumo anterior ao início da graduação os protege. Os modelos são multideterminados e requerem de instituições de ensino, entidades estudantis e equipes de saúde ações oportunas.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the prevalence and predictors for the problematic use of alcohol among university students in the health area. Cross-sectional study, conducted with 1,497 university students from 11 health courses, in the metropolitan region of Cuiabá-MT, Brazil. METHOD: The Test for Identification of Problems Related to the Use of Alcohol was used. Poisson regression was applied and the Prevalence Ratio was estimated. RESULTS: the prevalence of problematic alcohol use was 23.6%. Problematic alcohol consumption was identified among men, single, who lived alone, who considered themselves aggressive and who used alcohol in festive moments to relax, have pleasure and improve social interaction. The one who lived with spouse and/or children, was in the 2nd year of the course, did not notice changes in the pattern of consumption in college; the non-participant of athletics, who considered himself calm and introverted and drank for problems or "nervousness" presented less frequent problematic use of alcohol. CONCLUSION: the search for socialization influences the use of alcohol among university students. It is suggested that the maintenance of the consumption pattern prior to the beginning of graduation protects them. The models are multi-determined and require, from educational institutions, student entities and health teams, timely actions.

OBJETIVO: identificar la prevalencia y los predictores del consumo problemático de alcohol entre estudiantes universitarios en el campo de la salud. MÉTODO: estudio transversal, realizado con 1.497 estudiantes universitarios de 11 cursos de salud, em región metropolitana de Cuiabá-MT, Brasil. Se utilizó la prueba para identificar problemas relacionados con el consumo de alcohol. Se aplicó la regresión de Poisson y se estimó la razón de prevalencia. RESULTADOS: la prevalencia del consumo problemático de alcohol fue del 23,6%. El consumo problemático de alcohol se identificó entre hombres, personas solteras, que vivían solos, que se consideraban agresivos y que usaban alcohol en momentos festivos, para relajarse, disfrutar y mejorar la interacción social. El que vivía con un cónyuge y/o hijos, estaba en el segundo año del curso, no notó cambios en el patrón de consumo en la universidad; quien no participó en el deporte, quien se consideró tranquilo e introvertido y bebió debido a problemas o "nerviosismo" presentó protección para el uso de alcohol. CONCLUSIÓN: La búsqueda de la socialización influye en el consumo de alcohol entre los estudiantes universitarios. Se sugiere que mantener el patrón de consumo antes del comienzo de la graduación los protege. Los modelos son múltiples y requieren una acción oportuna por parte de las instituciones educativas, los cuerpos estudiantiles y los equipos de salud.

Relationship of Binge Drinking with Impairments Affecting Memory and Executive Function among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Spain.

Binge drinking (BD) is a common practice among college students. Alcohol consumption may affect brain structures that continue to develop in early adulthood. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship of BD with impairments affecting memory and executive function among university students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students (aged 18-30 years) enrolled for the academic year 2018-2019 at the Faculty of Nursing of the University of Cantabria (Spain). Data collection included sociodemographic and academic information, together with alcohol and drug use information, collected by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. A battery of validated tests was used to gather neuropsychological variables. A total of 142 participants were included, of which 88.03% were women. Up to 38.03% were classified as BD. No differences were found in memory tests. Regarding executive function, better performance in the Stroop Color and Word Test was observed in non-BD but the results were not statistically significant. In conclusion, no relationship was found between memory and executive function and BD, although better performance in executive function, specifically inhibitory control, was observed in non-BD.

Prevalência e características do consumo de álcool entre universitários / Prevalence and characteristics of alcohol consumption among university students

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi conhecer o consumo de álcool entre estudantes de uma universidade no sul do Brasil. Realizou-se estudo transversal, quantitativo, com acadêmicos de Biomedicina (n=134) por meio do instrumento Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, versão traduzida. Utilizou-se teste estatístico para verificar associação entre variáveis categóricas. Houve predomínio de mulheres, de 18 a 21 anos. Verificou-se início precoce de consumo de álcool, anterior à chegada à universidade, vinculado a festas e companhia de amigos. Após ingressar no curso, 41,04% disseram ter aumentado a ingestão (p=0,0001). Quanto ao risco, 72,38% foram classificados como consumidores de baixo risco, 19,39% como de risco, 5,98% de alto risco e 2,25% dependentes. Ser acadêmico da área da saúde e conhecer os prejuízos associados ao consumo do álcool não favorece a adoção de um estilo de vida saudável. Evidencia-se que o uso de álcool não é exclusivamente influenciado pelo conhecimento dos riscos.

This research aimed to know about alcohol consumption among students at a university in southern Brazil. A cross-sectional, quantitative study was carried out with Biomedicine students (n = 134) using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, translated version. Statistical tests were used to verify the association between categorical variables. There was a predominance of women, aged 18 to 21 years. There was an early onset of alcohol consumption, prior to arrival at the university, linked to parties and the company of friends. After entering the course, 41.04% said they had increased their intake (p = 0.0001). As for risk, 72.38% were classified as low risk consumers, 19.39% as risk consumers, 5.98% high risk and 2.25% dependent. Being a health academic and knowing the losses associated with alcohol consumption does not favor the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. It is evident that the use of alcohol is not exclusively influenced by the knowledge of the risks.

[Effectiveness of Drinking Reduction Program Focused on Self-Determination Enhancement for College Students with Problematic Drinking].

PURPOSE: This study examined the impact of a drinking reduction program on drinking motivation, drinking refusal self-efficacy, and problematic drinking behaviors in college students with problematic drinking habits. METHODS: This study incorporated a non-equivalent control group prepost-test design. Study participants included 58 college students who scored 12 or more in the AUDIT-K test (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Korean version) (experimental group: 30; control group: 28). The intervention consisted of eight sessions and was conducted once a week. It was designed to promote autonomy, competence, and relatedness-the three elements of basic psychological needs in self-determination theory. The participants were assessed before the intervention, immediately after, and four weeks post intervention. Data were collected from October 12 to December 31, 2017. The analysis employed the chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, independent t-test, and repeated measures ANOVA using SPSS/WIN 22.0. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 21.8 years. There were 30 men (51.7%) and 28 women (48.3%). The differences in drinking motivation, drinking refusal self-efficacy, and problematic drinking behaviors were statistically significant for the group by time interaction (F = 42.56, p < .001; F = 54.96, p < .001; F = 39.90, p < .001, respectively). CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that the intervention effectively decreases drinking motivation, increases drinking refusal self-efficacy, and decreases problematic drinking behaviors. It can be an efficient strategy for college students with problematic drinking habits to enhance their self-determination ability.