Self-Report on Men’s Beliefs and Perceptions on Their Alcohol Use/Misuse in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Alcohol consumption among humans has lasted for several centuries. In Africa, drinking is normal for men despite its consequences. The study is aimed at determining the rate of alcohol consumption in the study area, health consequences of alcoholism and factors that reinforce alcoholism among men. The study, which adopted descriptive survey design, was conducted at Ezeagu, Southeast Nigeria. Quota sampling was used to select participants (400). A questionnaire was used to collect data, and analysis was done using descriptive statistics. The data revealed that men in the area are heavy drinkers, but their level of awareness about its health consequences is low. The study shows that the factors preventing men from quitting alcohol consumption include peer group influence and traditional ceremonies/festivals. The study concludes that alcoholism has adverse health consequences. Men hardly quit alcohol consumption because of factors within their communities, therefore; raising the awareness level about the adverse health implications of alcoholism is a necessity.