Alcohol Use by University Students of South Brazil and Its Changes During the Early COVID-19 Pandemic

Alcohol is one of the most commonly consumed psychoactive substances worldwide, with university students representing a subgroup characterized by elevated consumption rates. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant behavioral shifts across the general population, with students particularly vulnerable to its psychosocial impacts. In this context, the present study aimed to assess alcohol consumption patterns among university students and to examine the influence of the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic on these behaviors. A cross-sectional study was conducted between July and November 2020 using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire. Alcohol consumption was assessed through self-reported measures of use (yes/no), frequency of intake (e.g., weekly consumption), and perceived changes in consumption compared to the pre-pandemic period. The instrument also collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and COVID-19 diagnosis. A total of 1553 valid questionnaires (i.e., fully completed responses meeting inclusion criteria) were analyzed. The prevalence of self-reported alcohol consumption was 99.93%, reflecting the inclusion of individuals with any level of consumption (including occasional use). Weekly consumption was the most frequently reported pattern. Regarding changes during the pandemic, 248 students reported an increase in alcohol intake, which was considered the main outcome of the study. Students reporting a perceived decline in overall health were less likely to report increased consumption, whereas those with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis were more likely to report increased use. The findings reveal a high prevalence of alcohol consumption among university students and suggest that periods marked by abrupt behavioral and routine changes, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may significantly influence substance use patterns within this population.