Micro-level factors associated with alcohol use and binge drinking among youth in the COMPASS study (2012/13 to 2017/18)

Abstract

This study examined the associations of micro-level factors with current alcohol use and binge drinking among a large sample of Canadian youth.

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted among high school students enrolled in the COMPASS study between 2012/13 and 2017/18. We used generalized estimating equations modelling to determine associations between micro-level factors and likelihood of current versus non-current alcohol use and binge drinking among respondents.

Students reporting current cannabis use were more likely to report current alcohol use over never use (odds ratio [OR] = 4.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.33–4.60) compared to students reporting non-current cannabis use. Students reporting current smoking of tobacco products were more likely to report current binge drinking over never binge drinking (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 2.45–2.58), compared to non-smoking students. Students reporting weekly disposable incomes of more than $100 were more likely to report current over never binge drinking (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 2.09–2.19), compared to students reporting no weekly disposable income.

Higher disposable incomes, smoking of tobacco products and use of cannabis were associated with current alcohol use and binge drinking among youth. Findings may inform design of polysubstance use prevention efforts in high schools.