Journal of Alcoholism & Drug Dependence
Open Access

Abstract

Alcohol Consumption by School-Going Adolescents in Madagascar: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors

Noeline Razanamihaja, Befinoana and Boylefevre Marie-Laure

Objectives: The study was designed to provide estimates of alcohol use by school-going adolescents aged 12 -18 years old in Madagascar and to identify risk factors associated with.

Methods: An analytical cross sectional study was conducted using the Global School-Based Health Survey questionnaire (GSBHS). The study used a self-completed questionnaire administered under confidential control in classroom. Sample was chosen by stratification. Participation in the study was seldom but the rate was high. For statistical analysis, the bivariate analysis used chi square test to assess differences and correlation between independent variables were undertaken.

Results: The logistic regression analysis of data found high proportion of first alcohol use with a mean of 69.1%. The study also showed an age-related alcohol use increasing with age. Rates were substantially higher among 12^th class than among 8^th class. Male students were more likely to report alcohol drinking than female. The gender difference is greater for spirits more likely used by male. Drinking rates differed also by urbanization. Greater difference existed in the prevalence of drinking in urban and suburban areas. Students in urban cities exhibited the highest rates. No association with parental alcohol drinking habit was found.