Assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Youths on Excessive Alcohol Consumption in BUEA
Chapter One
Objective of the study
The objectives of the study are;
- To assess and determine the knowledge of youth regarding excessive alcohol consumption and adverse effects on their health.
- To assess and describe attitudes towards youth excessive alcohol consumption
- To assess and describe behavioral practices toward excessive alcohol consumption among youth
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Introduction
This chapter reviewed the reports and views of different scholars in relation to the literature and what other researchers wrote about knowledge and practice on alcohol consumption among the youths.
Prevalence of alcohol consumption among the youth
Alcohol use being a worldwide problem, not only results in millions of death and diseases but a causal factor to self-inflicted injury and violence as well (World Health Organization, 2004). WHO global status report (2018) states that consumption levels are highest in Europe but African nations suffer the heaviest burden of alcohol-related diseases, injuries and deaths. The report further indicates that from the global population of 15 – 19-year-olds, 26, 5% (155 million adolescents) are current drinkers. In the same study, current drinkers were found to consume an average of 32.8 grams of pure alcohol per day, which is 20% higher (40.0 g/day) in the African Region in comparison to other regions. Globally, there has been an increase in total alcohol per capita consumption (from 5.5 litres of pure alcohol in 2005 to 6.4 litres in 2016). A survey conducted in American countries, Europe and the Western pacific found that adolescents younger than 15 years were found to be consuming alcohol. The prevalence of alcohol consumption by these 15-year-olds stood at 50 – 70% and a slight difference between boys and girls was observed (World Health Organisation, 2018). Edwards, Marshall, & Cook, (2003) found that extensive research has revealed that a correlation exists between high average consumption of alcohol in a population and incidence of alcohol-related problems. However, (Sherlock & Dooley, 1997) says that not all alcohol abusers develop liver damage. The development of alcoholic cirrhosis in certain people remains unknown. Moreover, liver damage due to alcohol consumption is not related to the type of beverage, but rather due to its content (Sherlock & Dooley, 1997). Therefore, continuous daily intake may be more dangerous than occasional drinking. In a study by (Sommers & Sundararaman, 2007) it has been observed that there is an increase in disability, suicidal incidences, violence and traffic violation among the youth under age 21 who consume alcohol in the United States. The legal age to purchase alcohol is 21; however, it has been found that 20% of alcohol consumed in the U.S is by person’s aged 12- 20-year olds. Approximately 5000 young people per annum age below 21 died as a result of juvenile drinking. The prevalence of alcohol consumption despite having dropped over the years in the U.S, underage drinking remains the prevalent problem than the use of other drugs. In Brazil, 48.3% – 71.4% of adolescents were found to have experienced alcohol use, whereas 27.3% regular users and 8.9% heavy users; despite having a few alcohol prevention programmes in place (Granville-Garcia et al., 2014) Young adults are more likely to engage in petty crimes and risky behaviours. Alcohol use or abuse mostly tends to be a rising factor in incidences of the aforementioned. (Maciag, 1999) in another study done in the US, cases of criminality and a large portion of AIDS cases are highest reported among young adults, and alcohol-related problems are mostly observed in men (Nolen-Hoeksema, 2004) since woman are found to be drinking less than men. However, both genders may display similar alcohol-related problems. South Africa (SA) is among the countries from Africa with the highest levels of alcohol consumption in the world, and these levels continue to rise. Initiation of alcohol consumption is from as young as below 13 years old, rating at 12% (Ramsoomar; Morojele, 2012). At 16.6 litres of pure alcohol consumed per drinker per year, 5 5 billion litres.
CHAPTER THREE
Introduction
This chapter outlines the research methodology used to conduct this study. It covers an overview of areas that are needed to be considered when undertaking research and explains research methods used as well as the rationale for choosing the methodology. The following are defined: research design, study population, sampling, research instruments, data collection, validity, reliability, data analysis and research ethics
Research methods and design
The study applied a quantitative approach, using a cross-sectional descriptive design. The chosen design is appropriate because the collection of data was done at one point in time in a specified population (De Vos, et al, 2011) to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of young adults concerning alcohol use and its effects on their health.
Population
A study population is the total number of individuals with similar characteristics with which the research problem is concerned (De Vos, et al, 2011). However, due to large populations, researchers often cannot test every individual in the population, hence sampling techniques are used. According to the ‘’Cameroon Statistics Agency 2013’’, the total population of young adults age 18 to 30 years in Buea is 108 785 with an annual growth of 3.9% for 2018.
This study targeted both male and female in the age group eighteen (18) to thirty (30) years and was conducted in randomly selected suburbs in Buea, namely..
CHAPTER FOUR
The previous chapter emphasized the study methodology. This chapter will focus on data analysis, results and findings obtained from the study. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 25, and three hundred and eighty-three (383) participants were interviewed. Results of this study are presented under sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels (adequate and inadequate), attitude (good and negative) and practices on alcohol use and its effects on health. Illustrations are done using tables.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The study found that the majority of the respondents were aware of the dangers associated with excessive use of alcohol. However, the use of alcohol among the youth in Buea remains a significant problem. It is, therefore, suggested that a new approach and different strategies rather than education alone needs to be introduced to combat the destructive practices of youth and alcohol use
Conclusion
In conclusion, the assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and practices of youths on excessive alcohol consumption in Buea reveals critical insights into the prevailing scenario. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and comprehensive awareness campaigns to address the challenges associated with alcohol misuse among the youth population.
It is evident from the research that there exists a significant gap in knowledge regarding the potential health risks and societal consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. This knowledge deficit is coupled with attitudes that often normalize or trivialize the issue. To foster positive behavioral change, education initiatives should emphasize the long-term health implications, social ramifications, and potential impact on academic and professional pursuits.
Moreover, the identified practices related to alcohol consumption underscore the urgency of implementing preventive measures. Encouraging responsible drinking habits, promoting healthier coping mechanisms, and creating supportive environments for youths are essential components of a multifaceted approach.
Collaboration between educational institutions, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial to developing and implementing effective strategies. Furthermore, involving youths themselves in the design and implementation of awareness campaigns can enhance the relevance and impact of these initiatives.
In the quest to address excessive alcohol consumption among youths in Buea, a holistic approach that combines education, community engagement, and policy advocacy is essential. By empowering the youth with accurate information, fostering a positive attitude towards responsible drinking, and implementing practical measures, it is possible to create a healthier and more resilient community that prioritizes the well-being of its younger generation. The findings of this assessment provide a valuable foundation for future interventions aimed at curbing the prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption and promoting a culture of moderation and responsibility among Buea’s youth population.
Recommendation
Based on the comprehensive assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and practices of youths on excessive alcohol consumption in Buea, several recommendations emerge to guide future interventions and policies:
- Develop and implement targeted educational programs in schools and community centers to enhance awareness about the detrimental effects of excessive alcohol consumption. These programs should cover the physical, mental, and social consequences of alcohol misuse, as well as provide information on responsible drinking.
- Establish peer-led initiatives that encourage positive peer influence and communication. Youths are more likely to be receptive to information and advice from their peers. Peer educators can play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and promoting healthier lifestyles.
- Strengthen mental health and counseling services within educational institutions and community health centers. Offering support and guidance to youths struggling with issues related to alcohol consumption can be instrumental in preventing and addressing alcohol misuse.
- Engage the community in open discussions about alcohol-related issues, emphasizing the collective responsibility of individuals, families, and community leaders. Community-based programs can help create a supportive environment that discourages excessive drinking and encourages responsible behavior.
- Collaborate with local authorities to advocate for and implement policies that regulate the availability and marketing of alcohol, especially in proximity to educational institutions. This may include stricter enforcement of age restrictions, regulating alcohol advertising, and creating alcohol-free zones in certain areas.
References
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