Prevalence and pattern of alcohol use among men in Punjab

Background: Alcohol consumption is a significant public health concern, particularly in regions where cultural and social norms strongly influence drinking behaviors. Punjab, India, has one of the highest alcohol consumption rates in the country, necessitating a detailed examination of its prevalence and associated factors. This study investigates the patterns of alcohol consumption among men in Punjab, exploring frequency, quantity, and sociodemographic determinants. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 670 male respondents aged 18 years and above across urban, rural, and semiurban areas in Punjab. Stratified random sampling ensured adequate representation of various demographic groups. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering alcohol consumption frequency, type, quantity, and associated socioeconomic and cultural factors. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression, were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Findings indicate that 80.6% of respondents consumed alcohol, with higher prevalence observed in rural (84.5%) and semiurban (82.1%) areas compared to urban settings (73.5%). Weekly alcohol consumption was the most common pattern (39.7%), followed by daily drinking (30.0%). Whisky (34.3%) was the most consumed alcoholic beverage, followed by country liquor (29.4%) and beer (27.0%). Alarmingly, 15.8% of respondents consumed six drinks per day, while 5.7% reported drinking ten or more drinks daily, highlighting a potential risk of alcohol dependence. Conclusion: The high prevalence of alcohol consumption among men in Punjab underscores the need for targeted public health interventions. Strategies should focus on reducing alcohol availability, promoting awareness about alcohol-related health risks, and implementing community-based interventions tailored to rural and semiurban populations.