Alcohol-related harm among university students in Hanoi, Vietnam

Introduction and Aim: This study examines the prevalence of and risk alcohol-related harm and types of harm among medical students from Hanoi University (Vietnam). Risk factors include aspects of drinking patterns relevant socio-demographic variables. Study Design and Methods: A cross- study involving 1st to 6th year students (N=1216; response rate 96.5%). 210 students from each academic year were randomly selected from a covering all students from each academic year. Data were collected using questionnaire distributed in class by researchers. Drinkers completed 23 questions on alcohol-related harm categorized into: 1) 'negative daily activities'; 2) 'social conflict'; 3) 'loss of control, acute and withdrawal'; 4) 'mental health conditions'; and 5) 'physical and health problems'. Logistic and Poisson regression models were used to the predictors of alcohol-related harm and the amount of harm, Results: The prevalence of alcohol use associated with at least one or the five types of harm was higher in men (81.8%) than in women (60.4%). and male students, the most common harm category was 'loss of control, consequences, and withdrawal' (51.8 and 75.6%, respectively), followed 'negative influence on daily activities' (29.4 and 55.8%, respectively). living away from home, and average number of standard drinks per male drinkers, and age and frequency of drinking per week among female were associated with alcohol-related harm. Conclusions: These data alcohol-related harm represents a serious public health problem among educated individuals in Vietnam. The risk factors indicate that be aimed at aspects of drinking patterns and specific subpopulations gender, age, and (for men only) type of living situation.