Evaluation of the level of risk due to alcohol consumption and associated factors, in first-entry students at a University Campus in Jalisco, Mexico

Abstract

Alcohol consumption in university students is considered a public health problem that can affect academic performance. The objective was to evaluate the level of risk for alcohol consumption in first-entry students at the University Campus of Biological and Agricultural Sciences of the University of Guadalajara. A questionnaire was applied that included: sociodemographic characteristics and alcohol consumption through the “Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test” (AUDIT). The information was collected anonymously, obtaining their informed consent and guaranteeing their confidentiality. 589 students were surveyed, with an average age of 19.1 years, 53.2% women and 46.8% men, 86.4% reported having consumed alcohol, with tequila and beer being the preferred alcoholic beverages; it was observed that alcohol consumption did not influence the family relationship with their parents or the average high school grade; Regarding the AUDIT, 83% of the respondents did not present problems with alcohol consumption, 12.9% need a simple advice to reduce consumption, 3.1% evidenced risky consumption, and 1.0% showed risk of dependence; so it is necessary to implement strategies for comprehensive education in university life.