How Severe is Binge Drinking in Malaysia and Who are at Risk?

Abstract

Study Background: Binge drinking is one types of harmful alcohol use that lead to several adverse health effects either to the drinker or to others. Objective: This study aims to identify the prevalence of binge drinking among the current drinker and its sociodemographic determinants. Subsequently provide information to assist relevant authorities in the planning and control of the harmful use of alcohol. Methods: The data were obtained from a cross-sectional study using a validated self-administered questionnaire of the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test – Malay version (AUDIT-M). Binge drinking was defined as having 6 or more drinks in on one occasion. An analysis of complex survey data was conducted using STATA 11 followed by multiple logistic regressions to examine the effects of potential socio-demographic determinants and the presence of comorbid smoking and bingeing compared to data from current drinkers. Results: Of the current drinkers in Malaysia (n=1759), half reported had engaged in binge drinking. Males and smokers were significantly prone to binge drinking. There was a higher proportion of Malays, Bumiputera Sabah and Sarawak with evidence of binge drinking behaviour compared to non-binge drinkers. Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated a higher likelihood of bingeing among males (aOR=1.4, 95% CI: 1.0 - 1.8), Bumiputera Sabah and Sarawak (aOR=1.7 (1.3 - 2.3), as well as those who are smoking (aOR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.3 - 2.2) when compared to non-binge drinkers. Conclusion: One in two current drinkers in Malaysia who are 13 years and older reported had engaged in bingedrinking. Thus, increase attention should be given to the current drinkers drinking habits especially if they are males, Bumiputera Sabah and Sarawak, as well as to the current smokers.