Alcohol Drinking among Primary School Children in Trinidad and Tobago: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors

Abstract

Background: Underage alcohol use is a pervasive problem with serious health, social and safety consequences.<br />This study was undertaken to assess alcohol use by primary school children in Trinidad and Tobago, and to identify<br />associated risk factors. Methods: We analysed data collected from 40 primary schools in Trinidad and Tobago by<br />the National Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Programme (NADAPP). The sample comprised of children aged 8<br />-15 years old, in standards 3, 4 and 5. Result: Out of the 2052 children, 648 (31.6%) have consumed alcohol in their<br />lifetime, and same proportion reported ever being drunk (31.6%). Male gender was significantly associated with lifetime<br />alcohol use (AOR =1.60, 95% CI= 1.25 - 2.05). Children not living with their father (AOR= 2.45, 95% CI=1.86- 3.24)<br />and those whose fathers have either primary or secondary education (AOR = 1.88, 95%CI=1.07 - 3.31; AOR= 1.58,<br />95%CI=1.12 - 2.23 respectively) were at higher risk for lifetime alcohol consumption. However, age group 8 – 11<br />years was significantly inversely associated with lifetime alcohol consumption (AOR= 0.67, 95% CI=0.48 - 0.94).<br />Conclusion: Being a male student, not living with father, and father attaining either primary or secondary education<br />level were significantly associated with increased likelihood for lifetime alcohol use. However, children between 8 – 11<br />years were less likely to consume alcohol.