Factores sociodemográficos y comportamentales asociados al consumo de alcohol en adolescentes escolarizados de una comuna de Medellín en el año 2014

Abstract

Introduction: The harmful consumption of alcohol is one of the main causes of death and disability, and this consumption affects more than 300 thousand young people between 15 and 29 years. In Colombia, although adolescents have the lowest consumption rate, this is significant, and large cities like Medellin are the most affected. The adolescent population is vulnerable and it is important to evaluate certain factors and to analyze their presumed association with the alcohol consumption disorder. Objective: To analyze the association between sociodemographic and behavioral factors and alcohol consumption in the adolescent school population belonging to El Poblado commune of the city of Medellin in the year 2014. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical observational study was carried out with a database in which 453 adolescents were questioned about the variables to be studied. Results: 248 subjects were analyzed. The prevalence of alcohol consumption disorder was 52%. The majority of the subjects were male (51%) mainly between 15 and 19 years old. Schooling, marijuana use, energy drinks and pathological gambling were identified as risk factors for alcohol consumption disorder. Conclusions: Based on the risk factors identified, prevention campaigns and links to recreational and cultural activities should be promoted.