Abstract

Alcohol use is an important preventable risk factor for several non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries that is related to lifestyle choices. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption and its correlates. A cross sectional study utilizing a WHO stepwise approach to surveillance of NCDs was conducted in Lusaka district, Zambia. Current alcohol consumption was defined as having consumed alcohol in the previous 30 days to the survey. Complex samples logistic regression was used to determine independent predictors. A total of 1928 individuals participated in the survey. A third of the participants were males and 53.2% were in the age group 25 to 34 years. Overall, 35.8% of the respondents had attained secondary level of education. The prevalence for current consumption of alcohol was 20.7% (37.9% of males and 12.2% of females). Sex was associated with alcohol consumption, with females being 68% (AOR = 0.32, 95%CI [0.20, 0.51]) less likely to consume alcohol compared to male respondents. Age, education, body mass index and sedentary were not independently associated with alcohol consumption. The high prevalence of alcohol use among Zambian adults indicates an urgent need for specific measures such as public awareness campaigns, policies, and regulations. 

Key words: Alcohol consumption, gender, Zambia.