Alcohol Consumption among Undergraduate MBBS Students in Rims, Imphal

Alcohol consumption among medical students have important implications not only for their own health but also of the general population since they are role models in terms of health related behaviours. A cross sectional study was conducted among all Undergraduate MBBS students of RIMS, Imphal using a self administered questionnaire during the period of August-September 2013 with the objectives of a. To determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption among undergraduate medical students in RIMS. b. To determine the characteristics of alcohol drinking behavior. C. To assess the effects of alcohol drinking behaviour on their academic performance. Chisquare test, t test and Kruskal Wallis test used for analysis. Out of 300 students 48 % (145 students) of them have ever consumed alcohol, which was significantly higher among males and 88 students have consumed in the past one month. Beer was the most commonly consumed alcoholic beverage (31.7 %). Friends influence was the most common reason for initiation of alcohol consumption (45.5 %). Enjoyment was the main reason for drinking at present (67.7 %). Ever consumption of alcohol was significantly associated with family history of alcohol consumption (p-value=0.00). Increasing frequency of alcohol consumption significantly affected academic performance (p-value=0.00). Alcohol consumption has a negative impact on their health, academic performance and their future professional abilities. It is recommended to conduct similar studies in the future and to create awareness about the health hazards of alcohol consumption and sensible drinking.