| Summary: | Background
Alcohol consumption among females is not common in socio-cultural background of Sri Lanka. Although accurate estimates are not available for Sri Lankan estate sector, alcohol consumption among females is reported to be high.
Objectives
The objective was to determine the prevalence and patternsof alcohol consumption among female estate labourers in Medical officer of Health area, Kothmale.
Methodology
A community based cross sectional study was carried out in a sample of 368 adult (>18 years) female estate labourers in 2014. Sample was collected using multi stage probability proportionate random sampling technique from 15 sub divisions in five estates in Kothmale MOH area using pay sheet as the sampling frame. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used.
Results
The response rate was 95.1%.Prevalence of alcohol consumption among estate sector females (ever drinkers) was 31.25% (95% CI, 26.51% – 35.99%). Prevalence of current drinkers, former drinkers and quitters were 16.8% (95% CI, 13.0% – 20.6%), 8.4 % (95% CI, 5.6% – 11.2%) and 6.0 % (3.6% – 8.4%) respectively. Most consumed alcoholic beverage was arrack (74.8%) followed by beer (43.5%) and toddy (28.7%). Home of the drinker was the most preferred place of drinking (57.4%, n=66). Husband was the commonest companion (53%, n=61). Most of the ever drinkers used to drink after work (80%, n=92). The main reason given was to relieve work stress (84.3%, n=97). Alcohol consumption was significantly associated with increased age (p<0.0001) and low level of education (p<0.0001). Consumption of more than one type of alcoholic beverage was significantly associated with increased age (p=0.014) and high family income (p =0.004).
Conclusions
Prevalence of alcohol consumption among female estate labourers in MOH area Kothmale is 31.25% and it is higher than for the rest of the country. Patterns of drinking and their unique characteristics need to be considered when implementing preventive measures in this population.
Key words
Alcohol, Estate, Female, Prevalence, Patterns
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