Alcohol use among students at a higher education institution

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol is seen as a dangerous psychoactive substance that affects human behavior, acts on the nervous system and is very popular among young people and its use has grown significantly, affecting the world population. Objective: The aim of this study was to present a survey on possible alcohol consumption practices among Physiotherapy students at the Centro Universitário de Caratinga - UNEC Campus in Nanuque-MG. Methodology: The methodology adopted is a descriptive-exploratory study with a quantitative approach. A questionnaire was drawn up and administered to 66 academics, but 50 were present and responded appropriately. Results: The sample was made up of 90% females and 10% males. With regard to alcohol consumption, 64% chose beer as their drink and the other 36% chose drinks such as vodka, cachaça and wine. Regarding the places they went to drink, 29% preferred to drink at home, 11% in bars, pubs or nightclubs, 21% at friends' houses, 36% at two or more places including their own home and 3% at friends' houses and outside the home. As for the frequency of consumption, 39% said that they drink once a month or less, 36% said that they drink two to four times a month, and 25% said that they drink two to three times a week. Conclusion: Abusive alcohol consumption has a negative impact on the health of young university students, making them vulnerable as many go through changes in their personal and academic lives. It is therefore important to raise awareness of the risks of excessive alcohol consumption in order to ensure a healthier and more satisfactory adaptation to university and during their training.