Study of Alcohol Use Disorders and Social Consequences Among Adults in Enugu State

Alcohol use disorders impose significant health, social, and economic burdens on Nigerian households, and their prevalence and associated consequences at the community level in South East Nigeria require documentation for effective public health planning. This study assessed the prevalence of alcohol use disorders and their social consequences among adults in Enugu Urban LGA, Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 adults aged 18 to 65 years, selected through systematic random sampling from five enumeration areas. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was used to screen for hazardous, harmful, and dependent drinking. Social consequences assessed included domestic violence, occupational impairment, financial difficulties, and criminal justice involvement. Results showed a lifetime alcohol use prevalence of 58.7 percent and a current alcohol use disorder prevalence of 24.3 percent (hazardous use 14.7 percent, harmful use 6.1 percent, dependence 3.5 percent). Male gender (OR 5.6; p < 0.001), young adult age group (18 to 35 years), and low socioeconomic status were significant predictors. Domestic violence attributable to alcohol use was reported in 38.6 percent of households with an alcohol-disordered member. Occupational impairment was documented in 52.3 percent of affected individuals. The study recommends community-based alcohol harm reduction programmes, integration of screening into PHC services, and workplace alcohol awareness initiatives targeting young adult males in Enugu State. Keywords: alcohol use disorders, AUDIT, social consequences, Enugu State, South East Nigeria