[Risky alcohol consumption and associated factors in adolescents aged 15 to 16 years in Central Catalonia (Spain): differences between rural and urban areas]

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of risky alcohol consumption and associated risk factors among adolescents living in Central Catalonia (Spain) during the 2011-2012 academic year, depending on their area of residence.

Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 1268 10th grade students (4th grade of secondary education) in Central Catalonia.

Results: Risky alcohol consumption was higher among adolescents in rural areas than in urban areas (59.6% versus 49.8%). Associated risk factors were drunkenness in siblings and friends, having positive expectations of alcohol consumption, and buying alcohol. Not living with both parents and poorer academic achievement were associated risk factors in rural areas, while higher socioeconomic status was a risk factor in urban areas.

Conclusions: Risky alcohol consumption was much higher among adolescents living in rural areas. The main associated factor was alcohol consumption among family and friends.

Keywords: Adolescent; Adolescente; Alcohol drinking; Associated factors; Binge drinking; Consumo de bebidas alcohólicas; Factores asociados; Población rural; Población urbana; Rural population; Urban population.