Alcohol Related Disorders in Asia Pacific Region: Prevalence, Health Consequences and Impacts on the Nations

Abstract

<em>Background:</em> In Asia Pacific (AP) region, the exact picture of the alcohol use problems has remained relatively obscure. In this study, the profile of alcohol consumption and alcohol related disorders in AP countries are presented. <br/><em>Methods:</em> Official statistics on average alcohol consumption (alcohol per capita consumption, APC), alcohol related health variables, income group and alcohol policy of countries geographically related to Asia and Oceania continents were extracted from the 2014 edition of World Health Organization report on global status of alcohol and health. <br/><em>Results: </em>The data of 57 AP countries were analyzed. Two-third of the countries did not establish comprehensive national monitoring systems (NMSs). Median of total APC in people aged 15 years and older was 2.4 (1-4.6) L during 2003 to 2005, while this indicator was 2.8 (1-5.5) L during 2008 to 2010 which accounts for about 0.4 L (in median) increase in consumption. In 13 countries which were mostly located in South-east Asia and the Pacific region, APC was higher than average global consumption. Comparing the countries with and without total ban policy, the countries with total ban policy had significantly lower APC (P = 0.003), higher rate of abstainers (P = 0.002) and lower rate of alcohol related disorders (P < 0.001). Higher APC and higher rates of alcohol related disorders were observed in higher income countries. <br/><em>Conclusion: </em>Alcohol consumption in AP region is comparatively lower than global average. However, the status of some countries in Southeast Asia and Pacific region is alarming and needs serious attention. Moreover, establishment of comprehensive NMSs, proper data registry and holistic harm reduction and rehabilitation programs for users should receive meaningful governmental and public support.