Patterns of alcohol consumption and factors influencing problematic drinking among Angolan soldiers

Alcohol prevention strategies for soldiers in sub-Saharan African countries suffer from limited knowledge about soldiers' alcohol consumption patterns. The present study was conducted to understand such patterns in Angolan soldiers, including associated risk and protective factors. From 12 military bases, 568 soldiers completed structured interviews that assessed demographic information, level of alcohol consumption, mental health, social support and religious activity. Logistic regressions were used to determine factors associated with any alcohol intake, problematic drinking, binge drinking and alcohol consumption prior to sexual activity. Nearly 35% of participants exhibited problematic drinking behaviour on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Approximately 26% reported at least one incidence of binge drinking during the past year; 16% described having recently consumed alcohol before sexual activity. Risk factors included being older, being unmarried, having poorer mental health or increased number of traumatic events and socialising with family and friends two to four times a month. Attending religious services more than once a week appeared to protect against problematic drinking. Results emphasise the need for effective alcohol prevention campaigns in Angola and for targeting efforts towards individuals exhibiting the observed high-risk characteristics.