Alcohol Use among Women in a Town of Eastern Nepal

Abstract

A community-based cross-sectional survey with cluster sampling method (probability proportionate to size) was carried out to estimate the prevalence of alcohol consumption among Nepalese women in Dharan town to assess the pattern of use and to identify the factors associated with this habit. A representative sample of 2340 women, aged 15 years and above was interviewed in 2002. The estimated prevalence of alcohol consumption was nearly 17%. Alcohol use is prevalent among females of hill ethnic groups. Nearly half of the divorced (formal or informal) women consumed alcohol. The women, aged 50 years and above, were at risk to become addicted to its use. Most popular drink in this area is a homemade product (Local Raksi). The alcohol users are more likely to smoke as well. More than 9% of pregnant women are found to consume alcohol during their pregnancy. Effective awareness programs are required to discourage the excessive use of alcohol among women and encourage those seeking regular health care services.

Key Words: Prevalence, pattern, factors, women, alcohol, Dharan, Nepal.