Page 1 of 14
612
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol.7, No.10
Publication Date: October 25, 2020
DOI:10.14738/assrj.710.9262.
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse
Among Younger Adults in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults in
Nsukka, Nigeria
Christian Chiedozie Iyiani
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Anthony Obinna Iwuagwu
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Christopher Ndubuisi Ngwu
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Stanley Emeka Agholor
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Brian Obue Eyang
University of Calabar, Calabar.
Paulinus Sunday Okah
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
ABSTRACT
Aim: Globally, there has been availability and misuse of alcohol among
youths and the consequences have been a thing of serious concern. This
study investigates the effects of alcohol consumption and abuse among
younger adults in Nsukka, Nigeria. The study used a multi stage random
sample of 110 younger adults aged 17-40 years. They were interviewed
using in-depth interviews (10) and Focus Group Discussions (10 FGD)
that elicited information on the effects of alcohol consumption and
abuse among younger adults. The qualitative data generated were
analyzed in themes. Results indicate that majority of the respondents
negatively perceived alcohol consumption to be depraved due to its
health, religious and social implications, especially when it is abused.
However, they conserved that many positive benefits are inherent in
alcohol consumption if it is not abused. Given the rate of alcohol abuse
among younger adults as findings show, there is the urgent need for
policies and programmes that will help regulate alcohol consumption
and abuse. This will go a long way in sensitizing, rehabilitating and
reintegrating alcohol addicts and the at-risk persons to the larger
society and the findings has potentials to influence policies on
alcoholism.
Keywords: Alcohol, Substance abuse, Youth, Nigeria
Page 2 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 613
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
INTRODUCTION
The general acceptability of alcoholic substances as a social beverage as well as its high level of
availability and consumption with weak regulation around the world has degenerate to abuse of
the substance. In Nigeria for example where alcoholic drinks are consumed across all age, social
issues such as alcoholism, truancy, death, gambling etc have raised heightened concerns. Alcohol is
one of the few psychoactive drugs of which society both allows and encourages consumption; it is
also the world’s most widely consumed drug (Machado, Félix Lana, Felisbino-Mendes, & Malta,
2013). Psychoactive substances are chemical substances that, when taken, have the ability to change
an individual’s consciousness, mood or thinking processes (WHO, 2014). Alcohol is among the most
common psychoactive substances used (Akindutire & Adeboyega, 2012; Yakasai, 2010; Yusuf,
2010). The most commonly consumed alcoholic beverage differs across Nations. Overall in Europe,
Beer, Wine and Spirits were the top three most consumed beverages (WHO, 2011). Alcohol is as old
as human history and in traditional societies; it was not out of place for alcohol to be brewed and
served at parties and ceremonies for both adults and the young ones with the younger population
enjoying adult supervision (Fumanti, 2010). According to Nwonyi, Effiong and Ubonm (2017), the
involvement in alcohol consumption apart from biological and psychological consideration arises
as a result of its availability and acceptability.
As shown in a World Health Organization, the worldwide consumption of alcohol was equal to 6.13
liters of pure alcohol consumed per person aged 15 years and older WHO (2011). It shows in a
Global World Health Organization Survey on Alcohol and Health conducted in 2008, a five year
drinking trend was followed for 18 – 25 year olds. Out of 82 responding countries 80% showed an
increase, 11% a decrease, 6% were stable and 12% showed inconclusive trends. Further shown in
WHO publication by McAllister and Lancet (WHO, 2011) harmful drinking patterns such as drinking
to intoxication and binge drinking seem to be on a rise among adolescent and young adults. Globally,
the harmful use of alcohol alone has been estimated to result in 3.3 million deaths each year and at
least 15.3 million persons worldwide have been documented to be suffering from drug use
disorders with alcohol use topping the chart (WHO, 2017). Additionally, alcohol is the world’s third
largest risk factor for disease burden and 2.5 million people die as a result of the detrimental
consumption of alcohol (WHO, 2014). Around one-fifth of those are youth between ages 15 to 29.
Moreover, alcohol causes many serious psychosocial issues. According to Henderson et al. (2013)
who surveyed young people in England aged 11 to 15 years old, the consequences of alcohol
consumption were also reported to include: 38% having vomited, 29% damaged their clothes, 26%
losing money, 23% having a fight and 18% getting into trouble with the police. Further, in Ireland,
Priest (2018) stated that alcoholics occupy about 7, 500 mental hospital beds and they form a fair
proportion of those who are homeless or who use reception centers.
According to Foster and Marriott (2016), alcoholism or alcohol abuse is associated with a variety of
serious health and social problems, including sexually transmitted diseases, low workplace
productivity, domestic violence, admissions to emergency healthcare services, acute myocardial
infarction, and traffic accidents; with a considerable proportion in young people and ranking third
among the main risk factors for premature death and disability (WHO, 2010). Alcohol consumption
levels are highest among the youngest age group (between 15-24) and regarding measured
occupational groups the highest percentage of respondents who usually have 3-4 or more drinks
per occasion are students at 46% (European Commission, 2010). The high rates of substance abuse
in student populations have been reported. Secondary school is unique in having the high number
Page 3 of 14
614
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
of teenagers who are seemingly battling with self-identity and peer pressure influence. These make
them more vulnerable to undertaking even illicit actions (Egbuonu, Egbuonu & Samuel, 2015).
This precarious situation is also prevalent in Nigeria as previous studies had revealed high burden
of substance abuse among students. For instance, Ogunsola and Fatusi (2016) reported that about
two-thirds of in-school adolescents in Osun State Nigeria had used substances in both rural (65.7%)
and urban areas (66.0%) respectively. Also, Lawoyin et al (2015) revealed that 69.3% of secondary
school students in Igboora, South-west Nigeria were current users of at least one of the illicit drugs.
Alex-Hart (2015) in a study among secondary school students in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria
also revealed that 30.6% of their respondents had ever taken alcoholic drinks before the survey
while, Yisa et al (2009) showed that lifetime use of any substance among students in Ibadan, South
West Nigeria was 15.3%. Eeguranti, et al (2009), in a study among secondary school students in
Oshogbo, South West Nigeria also reported 20.3% as the prevalence of substance abuse among the
respondents. Many factors have been identified to be responsible for drug abuse among young
people, these include: experimental curiosity, peer pressure, poor socio-economic condition at
homes and the need for extra energy for daily activities among others. Given this rise in prevalence
of alcohol use, it has resulted in varied social and mental health consequences on all.
Factors such as peer pressure, dysfunctional home settings, advertisement and inability to cope
with stress have been associated with onset of substance use (Salaudeen, Musa, Akande &
Bolarinwa, 2011). In Brazil, the world’s fourth leading producer of distilled liquor and beer, drinking
has expanded rapidly, a trend that can be associated with various factors such as advertising, low
prices, and widespread availability (WHO, 2010; Caetano & Laranteina, 2016). The main cause for
alcohol consumption among women in Zambia and other African countries is considered to be
associated with the economic status. Poverty has a significant role in the proliferation of
prostitution; young women are vulnerable because of these economic factors and tend to consume
alcohol as part of their prostitution activities (Singh et al., 2011).
According to WHO (2017) alcohol policies should be made with a main goal of enhancing the social
and health wellbeing of the public. The policies should control the market so that children are
protected from being lured into alcohol consumption by marketers. They must also prevent those
who consume alcohol from harming the innocent around them. Reducing harmful effects of alcohol
on health is also an important factor to consider in policy making. Therefore, a World Health
Organization (WHO) resolution adopted by the 58 World Health Assembly in 2005 called for a
concerted effort at the global, regional, and country level to address the social determinants of
harmful use of alcohol and reduce alcohol-related harm (Fekjaer, 2012). Notably, the federal road
safety corps (FRSC) of Nigeria has initiated some actions aimed at control of alcohol use by drivers
of commercial vehicles (Ebosele et al., 2010). More recently, the Nigerian government introduced
the NDLEA agency to checkmate on drugs and alcohol use and abuse. Despite the widespread
interventions to raise awareness of the harmful effect of alcohol use and to minimize its usage,
global data suggest an increase in alcohol use among young people (Global Status Report, 2017).
The practice of alcohol abuse in Nigeria has been of interest to scholars in the present time. Majority
of the research already carried out on alcohol abuse have focused on the prevalence, effects and
factors among youths (Ogunsola & Fatusi, 2016; Lawoyin et al., 2015; Alex-Hart, 2015; Yisa et al.,
2009; Eeguranti, et al., 2009; Salaudeen, Musa, Akande & Bolarinwa, 2011; Caetano & Laranteina,
Page 4 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 615
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
2016; Singh et al., 2011). However, none of these studies investigated alcohol abuse and its effects
on youths in Nsukka. This study therefore joins the existing conversation on alcohol abuse and
consumption as well as aims at closing this research gap by investigating the following research
questions: (a) What is the situation of alcohol consumption and abuse among younger adults in
Nsukka, Nigeria? (b) What are the factors promoting the consumption of alcohol among younger
adults? (c) What are the effects of alcohol abuse among younger adults in Nsukka? It is of the belief
that this study will provide results that will affect both local and international campaigns to curb
the abuse of alcohol, regulate its consumption as well as combat factors that will promote alcohol
abuse in the study area and beyond.
METHODOLOGY
Study Population
The study was carried out among younger adults in Nsukka L.G.A, Enugu State of Nigeria that were
between the ages of 17-40 years. The study area was Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Nsukka LGA comprises twelve autonomous communities Ibagwa, Okutu, Okpuje, Obukpa, Edem,
Obimo, Lejja, Ede-Oballa, Nsukka, Ehalumona, Opi, and Umabo from where five communities (Opi,
Ede-Oballa, Ibagwa, Nsukka and Obukpa) were purposively selected.
Design and sampling
A multi stage sampling procedure which entails successive selection of community clusters, groups,
streets, villages, housing units and respondents was employed (Mason, 2002). In the first stage, the
twelve autonomous communities (Ibagwa, Okutu, Okpuje, Obukpa, Edem, Obimo, Lejja, Ede-Oballa,
Nsukka, Ehalumona, Opi, and Umabo) were clustered. This cluster choice was to help the
researchers get varied demographic data that will be used to analyze the respondents’ views on the
subject of study. Secondly, a simple random sampling technique through simple balloting was
applied to choose five communities (Opi, Ede-Oballa, Ibagwa, Nsukka and Obukpa) from the 12
autonomous communities in Nsukka LGA of Enugu state. Purposive sampling was used next by the
researchers to directly choose respondents from the wards those who not only indicated
willingness, but were also eligible to participate on account of their age (Bryman, 2016; Bloor,
2001). Only male and females aged 17-40 were eligible for this study.
These participants were invited to the FGDs at specific locations. Each of the 10 FGD sessions
consisted of 10 participants summating to 100 participants. Lastly, the snowball technique was
adopted in identifying 10 IDI respondents (2 from each of the 5 communities) in Nsukka L.G.A used
for the study. However, they were persons who did not feature in the FGD. Snowball technique was
applied for the IDI because of the information-rich subject undergoing research and the need for
proper referral to information-rich persons, regarding the research topic (Silverman, 2005). These
referrals were done by the persons in charge of beer parlors, drinking spots, medical centers etc.
The researchers had a uniform FGD guide which abetted standardization of questions, and they
moderated two FGDs alongside a research assistant who doubled as the note taker in the event of
technical failure of the recording device. The Research Ethics Review Board had earlier moderated
the instrument so as not to instigate negative emotional reactions from participants on account of
the subject matter under discussion. FGDs and IDI were conducted in Nsukka dialect (Igbo) and
English languages depending on the language proficiency of participants. Participants verbally
Page 5 of 14
616
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
consented to the audio-recording of their responses and were guaranteed confidentiality and
anonymity.
Data-analysis
Audio-taped responses were later transcribed into English. The researchers then read through the
transcripts and established themes that were used for the analysis in line with the demands of this
study. Analytical themes were developed from the transcripts as guided by the literature reviewed.
Participants’ anonymity was handled by ensuring all identifying information such as names and
addresses, emails, date of birth/age etc. mentioned by the respondents were not shared with
anyone else and the original data is kept confidential. Pseudonyms were applied for respondents’
anonymity during analysis and writing of data.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Issues of inform consent arise in almost all research that borders on human being (Association of
Social Anthropologists, 2011). Since this study is no exception, we therefore, used participation
information sheet to inform the participants on what the research entails and equally sought their
consent for participation with the use of consent forms. Equally, we selected only participants with
capacity to give consent (Department for Constitutional Affairs, 2007). Another ethical issue
encountered is confidentiality. To avoid issues of confidentiality, names and other identifying data
of participants were kept in confidence and members/interviewees were educated of their
privileges to stop the interview or FGD with no explanation (British Sociological Association, 2002).
Pseudonyms were used during transcription so that respondents can remain anonymous (British
Society of Gerontology, 2012). Ethical consent for this research was obtained from the research
ethics review board of the authors’ institution.
RESULTS OF FINDINGS
The data present realities of alcohol consumption and its effects on younger adults in Nsukka, Enugu
State, Nigeria. The first theme detailed respondent’s knowledge on alcohol; secondly, perceived
views on the positive and negative side on the subject matter were examined while the third theme
presented the reactions of respondents toward the effects of alcohol consumption and abuse. Also,
the factors promoting the consumption of alcohol among the younger generation were examined.
Lastly, the study documented roles of social work as solution to the problems of alcohol
consumption and abuse. This was achieved through participants’ experiences which certainly
influenced their attitude and perceptions toward the exercise. Generally, their knowledge on these
themes was largely influenced by experiences they have had, witnessed, or heard about.
Knowledge of alcohol
In terms of participant’s knowledge of alcohol consumption, 95 percent of them indicated that they
had knowledge of the phenomenon. According to them the name is not new and does not sound
strange to them. However, some very few had differing knowledge that their local drink (pami) is
equally categorized as alcohol. However, only the response of a 22-year-old man, a 29-year-old
farmer and a 33-year-old woman were sampled. They opined thus:
Alcohol are usually drinks which contain substance that can make one hyperactive
especially when you take more than the percentage your body can carry. It is a popular
beverage consumed in almost every occasion in this town. When something good
Page 6 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 617
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
happens, we drink to celebrate, when something bad happens, we drink to forget the
pains or provide alcoholic drinks to host our guests who have come to mourn with us.
When nothing happens, we equally drink to thank God for life. Most consumed alcoholic
beverage here is our local Palm wine or Life beer, Hero beer among others (FGD 22 years
old man).
Alcohol are beverages good for the human health until it is taken in excessive quantity
or abused. It intoxicates the abuser and as such, influences the actions and inactions of
the abuser. Most of such drinks include Spirits, Gin, Beer etc. The consumers of alcohol
are both young and old and most come with warning for consumers such as +18 and the
percentage of alcohol (FGD 29 years old male respondent).
The knowledge of alcohol is very much widespread and people know of its effects as
intoxicating, however, they are ignorant of the deep effects such intoxication could
cause. Again we hardly perceive our local palm wine as a category of alcohol because
we are so used to it. ...even though both gender consumes alcohol, it is more likely you
find a young woman who doesn’t consume alcohol and are less likely to abuse alcohol
than their male gender counterparts (IDI 33 year old female respondent).
Positive views on alcohol consumption
Data from this study revealed that participants saw alcohol consumption from a positive light. Most
of them posit that the human body/ heart needs alcohol and it energizes them for their daily
activities. In addition, they saw alcohol consumption from a positive social angle being that it fosters
social cohesion and brings people together in moments of despair and celebration while it equally
has traditional importance:
A 36-year-old participant during one of the FGDs conducted with younger men had a positive view
to alcohol and its consumption. He linked his response to the reasons why it is good for people to
continue consuming alcohol. According to him:
...when you go for any form of gathering and there is no beer, no palm wine or any other
form of alcohol, the environment is usually very boring. In fact, there is hardly any
gathering in this our area that you won’t find alcohol of any sort. Again, alcohol has
traditional or cultural importance as we use palm wine or dry gin without them, we
cannot consult our chief priests and god (FGD participant, 36-year-old male).
Supporting this fact of positive view in alcohol consumption, majority of the respondents spoke
from the angle of health benefits in consuming alcohol. Even though they acknowledged the risks
involved in the abuse of alcohol, they don’t regret consuming it and had no plan to stop. In the words
of one of such men:
...people always concentrate on the consumption of alcohol as something bad whereas
the opposite is the case especially when not abused or taken beyond the capacity one’s
body could carry. I only wish that people who discuss alcohol will not just discuss its
effect based on consumption but based on the abuse of it. Of a truth, the human body
requires some percentage of alcohol and when taken minimally, it helps to control
coronary heart diseases. Again alcohol especially dry Gin or spirits helps to stimulate
the human body especially when the weather is cold and lastly, it is believed that our
Page 7 of 14
618
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
local alcoholic drink (palm wine) refreshes the brain and smoothens the skin (IDI
respondent, 40-year-old male respondent).
Finally, a social dimension in the importance of alcohol consumption was curled from the words of
a 25 year old man who concluded that what continues to bring people together in their local
community is the consumption of meats digested with alcohol, in his words:
...the meats and drinks we usually have in each social club here is one of the main
reasons we come out for meetings of age grades. Most times a drinking bar is an avenue
to make new friends and to deepen our old friendships and brotherhood. People hold in
high regard, alcoholic drinks offered to them than when such money is given to them.
Most important, alcohol consumption smoothens business transaction or agreement as
well as helps in resolving arising or already existing conflicts. For example, an alcoholic
drink is usually presented to finalize agreements such as land purchase, house rent etc.
(FGD participant, 25-year-old man).
Negative views on alcohol consumption
Granting that majority of the participants had positive views towards alcohol consumption; they
equally saw it in a negative light as well but only if and when abused. Some others aver that the
health, social and behavioral implication for such practice is worse than the gains or its positives.
Issues Below are their responses:
...alcohol consumption is not well regulated and there is no consensus on a minimum
gauge for drinkers, therefore abuse becomes the order of the day. Both young and old
have taken to the misuse of alcohol and as such consume it with reckless abandon. The
attached negative effects of alcohol abuse notwithstanding, the prevalence of
consumption and abuse remain on the increase (FGD with a 40-year-old participant).
When something lacks regulation, abuse is inevitable; this has been the case of alcohol
consumption. I would not encourage my ward to engage in alcohol consumption
because it is a prerequisite to alcohol abuse; this is because the majority of alcohol
consumers end up abusing it. This has been the cause of so many problems in our society
ranging from health, behavioral to social consequences (IDI with 30-year-old woman).
People who consume and abuse alcohol know it is not right but they often just cannot
help it especially among the youths who get exited easily. Parents, teachers and even
community leaders constantly rebuke the abuse of alcohol especially by youths who
should be productively engaged but such warning usually fall on deaf ears. I know most
young persons who cannot go a day without getting themselves intoxicated (FGD with
younger woman, 25-year-old).
Factors promoting alcohol consumption and abuse
Majority of the participants gave details on factors such as gambling/betting, sports advert,
frustrations and free drinks, alcohol abuse home, peer influence etc. as having influences on the
intake and consequently abuse of alcohol on younger adults.
A 32-year-old female participant recounted her personal experience from the purview of peer
influence. She said:
Page 8 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 619
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
I used to detest taking alcohol because of the bitter taste. I would always query why
people spend their hard earned money to consume bottles of alcohol. However, this
changed as I had to force myself to some bottles given the discriminatory practices and
stigma friends attach to those who don't and cannot take alcohol. Those days, I usually
get left out in social gatherings because I don't consume alcohol, so to feel belonged; I
started trying out some alcoholic drinks (IDI participant, 34-year-old female).
Further, other participants also reported that peer influence goes beyond convincing you to
consume alcohol; they further lead or influence one to abuse it. Below are direct narratives of a 22
year old male and a 23 year old female on such claim:
It is habitual for people to want their friends to consume what they are consuming and
in the same proportion as well. This pressure is usually common among those with the
purchasing power to buy more drinks. Consequently, such persons make sure their
friends continue to have more and more bottles of drink even without their approval.
(IDI participant, 22-year-old male).
Most times they call me as a bar attendant and ask that I keep supplying drinks to other
friends even without seeking their approval. Some will tell me to quickly open the cork
(cover) of the drink. As soon as the drink is opened, the other friends will have less option
to reject it hence are forced to consume beyond their normal gauge (IDI with a female
beer parlors attendant aged 23 years).
Another majority of participants mentioned the continuous rise in the advertisement of alcohol,
individual and societal frustrations as well as gambling and free drinks are part of the many factors
influencing alcohol abuse among youths in the study area. Recounting the situation of
unemployment as a depressing factor among youths, a 22-year-old woman stated that such youthful
frustrations have in no small way encouraged the abuse of alcohol. She said thus
...again, the situation of unemployment in Nsukka and Nigeria as a whole is well
documented and youths are at the receiving ends of such frustrations as orchestrated
by the lack of jobs. As a youth, each time I try to think so much about my state of
unemployment and lack of support from all sectors, I find myself moving to the nearest
bar to drink myself to stupor. This act is bad, but it reliefs me of negative thoughts such
as depression, suicide amongst others. It gives me a temporal relief of my situation (FGD
with a 22 years old female participant).
Effect of alcohol abuse
Alcohol abuse contrives some many effects on those who abuse it and has indirect effects on their
friends, families, communities and the society. Below are responses of the effect of alcoholism:
It is no longer news that the abuse of alcohol often leads to violence and other form of
conflicts. Among football spectators, those who abuse alcohol at half time or before
commencement of a match are usually hyper excited and hyperactive, hence create an
environment of argument and violence at the slightest provocation. Beyond football
fans which the youths are predominant in, alcohol abuse often lead to a disruption of
public peace. It is also among the causes of bullying in schools (FGD, female aged 19
years).
Page 9 of 14
620
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
In addition, some other respondents viewed the effects of alcohol to include cultism. Some said that
the love for alcohol drinks was the driving force to why some university undergraduates join cult
groups especially, the Kegite group. Buttressing this, a 37-year-old lecturer said:
I know a couple of students who joined the Kegite group or cult because of their large
consumption and reverence for palm wine popularly called ‘holy water’. Therefore, it is
really annoying knowing that simple drink habit can make our students join unholy
groups against our orientation to them. As an effect of such unholy alliance, they in turn
engage in various negative vices and sometimes get expelled from the university...
Remember the underlining cause is the love for alcohol and its abuse. Sincerely, excessive
consumption of alcohol may equally lead to death, ill health among others (FGD
participant, 37 years old male lecturer).
Marital instability and financial drain was also reported by respondents as some of the many effects
of alcoholism. Only the response of a married woman was surveyed below on such effects:
I hate seeing anything that contains alcohol. I agree it is not so bad if consumed
moderately, but this has not been the case in my home. My husband on a daily basis
consumes alcohol in a quantity that is more than his capacity and this has been the bane
of our marital issues. Often time after getting himself drunk, he comes home to beat me
up at the slightest provocation. Besides that, he would get himself drunk with monies
that otherwise should have been used for the welfare of our home and as such we go
hungry sometimes if not most times (FGD, married female aged 25 years).
Again, based on health effects of alcohol abuse or high consumption, respondents asserted that it
could lead to liver diseases, maternal consequences for expectant mothers, and even more rampant
is road accidents which have claimed lots of lives. The response of a 29-year-old shuttle driver and
a 28 year old female captured this:
Alcoholism has its many side effects. It is one of the leading causes of liver diseases and
this is often the case for those who consume dry gin and other very strong alcohol in
large quantum. The liver is therefore made to work more than its capacity and as such
breaks down with diseases. This is a fact as there have been many reported cases of liver
problems among my friends who consume and abuse alcohol. Again, most people
especially drivers and passengers lose their lives as a result of the driver having
consumed and abused alcohol before embarking on a journey. This is the reason why we
have been warned not to drink and drive. I even hear that in western countries, when an
accident happens, they quickly test the driver for alcohol and if found in his system, it
attracts huge consequence and insurance companies equally won’t indemnify the loss
(FGD participant, 29 years old male shuttle driver).
Most pregnant women who abuse alcohol sometimes have maternal complications as
some end up giving birth to a deformed or dead child. Some lose their lives in the process
of childbirth. Alcoholism of course has health implications on the pregnant woman as
well as on the foetus inside of her. This is some reasons women especially the pregnant
ones are advised never to abuse alcohol (FGD participant, 28 year old female)
Some medical practitioners who were interviewed gave some medical views on the negative sides
of abusing alcohol. Quoting verbatim, they said:
Page 10 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 621
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the
brain looks and works. These disruptions can change mood and behavior, and make it
harder to think clearly and move with coordination. Again, drinking a lot over a long
time or too much on a single occasion can damage the heart, causing problems including
Cardiomyopathy, Arrhythmias, Stroke, High blood pressure etc. (IDI with 28year old
male medical practitioner).
Heavy drinking takes a toll on the liver, and can lead to a variety of problems and liver
inflammations such as steatosis, or fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis.
Alcohol equally causes the pancreas to produce toxic substances that can eventually
lead to pancreatitis, a dangerous inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the
pancreas that prevents proper digestion... (IDI with a 37year old a female medical
practitioner).
... yes... there is a strong scientific consensus of an association between alcohol drinking
and several types of cancer such as colorectal cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer
esophageal cancer and head and neck type of cavity particularly those on the oral cavity
(IDI with a 31-year-old female nurse).
DISCUSSIONS
Findings revealed that the majority of the participants acknowledged that the act of excessive
consumption of alcohol is inimical to human biopsychosocial wellbeing, but given the perceived and
social and cultural positives therein, they don't support an embargo to be placed on the sales of
alcohol in the open market. In their view, the quantity of alcohol intake is what should be curbed.
Alcohol is reported to have fostered social cohesion among youths and it is used for most cultural
practices and celebrations as well as its benefits to the human heart and system. In contrast, the fear
of adverse health consequences when abused and the need to maintain bio psychosocial normalcy
were the reasons given by those who perceive it negatively and thus clamor for policies that will
help discourage high quantity consumption which leads to intoxication and many other negative
effects.
Specifically, all participants affirmed to be knowledgeable on the subject of alcohol abuse as the
phenomena is not new in their environment. Such view on knowledge of alcohol abuse is not
unconnected to the findings of Adekeye (2012), Awosusi and Adegboyega (2013). More so,
participants had positive view on alcohol consumption as they reported that it is healthy for the
heart and its place in cultural practices cannot be deemphasized. Other studies have also
documented same claim of positive sides of consuming alcohol (Dunbar et al., 2012; Tarr, Launay,
Cohen & Dunbar, 2015; Tarr, Launay & Dunbar, 2016; Pearce, Launay, & Dunbar, 2015; Dunbar et
al., 2016; Dumbar et al., 2017).
In addition, findings of this study further detailed negative views of alcohol consumption among
younger adults based on some bio psychosocial considerations and most importantly, such negative
perceptions are hinged on factors such as peer pressure, abusive homes, constant celebration with
free drinks, frustration, gambling etc. It was in this regard that NASWS (2013) stated that substance
use disorders can significantly disrupt a client’s family system as it has implications with regard to
parenting abilities and the resulting consequences for children involved is a key factor to be
Page 11 of 14
622
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
considered. Other studies in support of the negative sides of alcohol consumption are: Foster and
Marriott, (2016); Chikere and Mayowa, (2011); Dumbili, (2013).
As regards efforts to combat the practice of alcohol abuse, the study revealed that both
governmental and non-governmental agencies are not sleeping on the issue, however, such efforts
have not helped matters much regarding the continuous up rise in the abuse of alcohol and its
resultant effects. It is in this regard that Audrey and John (2016) averred that the alcohol beverage
and hospitality industries have long been viewed as adversaries to public health efforts aimed at
reducing alcohol misuse. As a solution, it was suggested by participants that policies on alcohol
consumption should transcend beyond paper works as has been the case, sponsorship and
advertisement by the alcohol producing and marketing agencies. They should deemphasize the
inappropriate consumption of such drinks. Also, substance abuse policies should be implemented
and offenders punished. The researchers believe that since youthful frustration is among the
reasons youth engage in the abuse of alcohol, alcohol abuse by younger adults should therefore be
addressed through the formulation and implementation of policies that can improve the economy
of the nation. The emphasis should be specifically on empowerment, health education and
sensitization on the dangers of alcohol abuse. These will go a long way in changing the perception
of the abusers and consequently reduce the rate of alcohol consumption among the youths.
CONCLUSION
Generally, people take pleasure in daily alcohol consumption, especially with friends in different
joints and club houses as means of relaxation. In Nigeria, different alcohol producing companies are
also sponsoring football and other sporting events which are largely viewed by the Nigerian youths.
Popular Nigerian actors and actresses are paid to advertise alcoholic drinks in Newspapers, Radios,
Televisions and Billboards. These however encourage young people to use and abuse alcohol.
Adversely, the economic situation in Nigeria has equally heightened the frustrations of youth who
in turn rely and abuse alcohol as a coping mechanism. All these could have served as push factors
for increased alcohol consumption among the Nigeria youths hence the call for professional
intervention.
The burden of alcohol abuse is still high in our study area and the prevalence was significantly
higher among youths. It is therefore essential to incorporate substance/alcohol abuse curriculum
into the national school curriculum for secondary school students and tertiary institutions in
Nigeria. Hitherto, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) should intensify their
campaigns on alcohol and other related substances in order to have a free society. The campaign
against the use of alcohol and misuse of drugs should be more strengthened at the secondary school
level because it is the peak of adolescent. Also, government and other relevant authorities should
make stringent laws against alcohol abuse as well as alcohol dependence. Further, awareness
campaigns on dangers associated with alcohol abuse should be intensified in Nigeria. Social media
and other channels of communication should be positively engaged in reaching the youths on this
subject. Meanwhile, advertisement of alcoholic drinks using celebrities who are often seen as role
models to the younger ones should be discouraged. Lastly, accessibility of alcohol should be strictly
monitored and regulated in Nigeria especially among youths and adolescent.
Page 12 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 623
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
Funding
The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this
article.
Declaration
The authors report no conflicting interests
References
Adekeye, O.A (2012). Knowledge level and attitude of school going male adolescents towards drug use and abuse.
Kotangora Journal of Education. Kotanhora, Niger state, 12: 122-130
Akindutire, I.O., & Adegboyega, J.A. (2012). Psychoactive Substance Consumption and Awareness of Health Effects
among Students in Tertiary Institutions in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research
and Policy Studies, 3(3), 257-262. jeteraps.scholarlinkresearch.org.
Alex-Hart, B.A., Opara, P.I, Okagua, J (2015). Prevalence of alcohol consumption among secondary school students in
Port Harcourt, southern Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Paedatrics; 42(1):39–45.
Association of Social Anthropologists (2011). Ethical Guidelines for Good Research Practice, Association of Social
Anthropologists of the UK and the Commonwealth (ASA).
[https://www.theasa.org/downloads/ASA%20ethics%20guidelines%202011.pdf]
Awosusi, A .O & Adegboyega, J.F (2013). Knowledge of health effects and substance use among students of tertiary
institutions in south western Nigeria. Journal of education and practice, 4 (23) 201-245
Baba, S & Tapert S.F (2010). Adolescent Brian development and the risk for alcohol and other drug problems.
Neuropsychological Revision, 20 (4): 398-413
Audrey, B. &, John, C (2016). Reducing and preventing alcohol misuse and its consequences: A Grand Challenge for
social work. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 5(2), 73-
83.doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v5i2.223
Bloor, M. (2001) Focus Groups in Social Research, London: Sage.
British Society of Gerontology (2012) BSG Guidelines on Ethical Research with Human Participants.
[https://www.britishgerontology.org/about-bsg/bsg-ethical-guidelines]
British Sociological Association (2002) Statement of Ethical Practice, British Sociological Association. Retrieved 2-.4-
2018 from [https://www.britsoc.co.uk/media/23902/statementofethicalpractice.pdf]
Bryman, A. (2016) Social Research Methods, 5th ed., Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Caetano R, Laranjeira RA (2016). A ‘perfect storm’ in developing countries: economic growth and the alcohol industry.
Addiction. 101:149-52.
Chikere, E.I.C & Mayowa, M.O (2011). Prevalence and perceived health effect of alcohol use among male
undergraduate students in owerri, south east Nigeria: A descriptive cross sectional study. BMC Public Health, 11, 118
Department for Constitutional Affairs (2007) Mental Capacity Act 2005: Code of Practice, London: The Stationery
Office.
Dumbili, E (2013). Changing pattern of alcohol consumption in Nigeria: an exploration of responsible factors and
consequences. Medical sociology online; 7: 20-33
Dunbar, R. I. M., Baron, R., Frangou, A., Pearce, E., van Leeuwen, E. J. C., Stow, J., Partridge, P., MacDonald, I., Barra, V., &
van Vugt, M. (2012). Social laughter is correlated with an elevated pain threshold. Proceedings of the Royal Society,
London, 279B, 1161--1167.
Dunbar, R. I. M., Teasdale, B., Thompson, J., Budelmann, F., Duncan, S., van Emde Boas, E., & Maguire, L. (2016).
Emotional arousal when watching drama increases pain threshold and social bonding. Royal Society Open Science, 3,
160288.Dunbar,
Page 13 of 14
624
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol.7, Issue 9, September-2020
Dunbar, R.I.M., Launay, J., Wlodarski, R., Robertson, C., Pearce, E., Carney, J & MacCarro, P (2017). Functional Benefits
of (Modest) Alcohol Consumption. Adaptive Human Behavior and Physiology 3:118–133 DOI 10.1007/s40750-016-
0058-4
Ebosele Y. Kings Place, London: The Guardian Newspaper; (2010). FRSC move against consumption of alcohol at
motor parks; p. 42.
Eeguranti BA, Fatoye FO, Morakinyo O (2009). Stimulant use among secondary school students in Osogbo, Nigeria.
The Nigerian Postgraduate Medical Journal;16(3):218–223.
Egbuonu, T., Egbuonu, T & Samuel, E (2015). Contributions of behavioral science to alcohol research: Understanding
who is at risk and why. Experimental Clinical Psychopharmacology, 6(3), 264-270.
European Commission. (2010). EU Citizens attitudes towards alcohol. Special eurobarometer 331. European
Commission. Brussels: TNS Opinion & Social.
Foster, S and Marriott, B (2016). Using alcohol expectancies to predict adolescent drinking behavior after one year.
Journal of Consulting Clinical Psychology, 57, 93-99.
Fumanti, P (2010). Abnormal psychology (14th ed.). Boston: The Pearson Custom Library.
Global Status Report, (2017). Acculturation stress and alcohol use among international college students in a U. S.
community college settings.
http://www.theses.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd09262005135714/unrestricted/koyama_Dissertation.pdf.
Henderson L, Franklin B. (2013). Sad not bad images of social care professionals in popular UK television drama.
Journal of Social Work 7: 133–53.
Lawoyin et al (2015). Specifying the relations between affect and heavy alcohol use among young adults. Journal of
Abnormal Psychology, 110(3), 449-461.
National Association of Social Workers (2003). Social work speaks, 6th ed. National Association of Social Workers
Policy Statements 2003-2006.
National institute of drug and alcohol [NIDA] (2018). Alcohol Addiction. Retrieved July 12 2018 from
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third- edition/evidence-based-approaches-to-drug-addiction-treatment/pharmacotherapies/alcohol on 2018, July 12
Nwonyi, Effiong and Ubonm (2017). The association between perceived interpersonal social support and physical and
mental health: Result from the national epidemiological survey on alcohol and related conditions. Journal of Public
Health, 32(2), 191-201
Ogunsola OO, Fatusi AO (2016). Risk and protective factors for adolescent substance use: a comparative study of
secondary school students in rural and urban areas of Osun State, Nigeria. International Journal of Adolescent
Medicine and Health;29(3)
Priest, C (2018). What has research over the past two decades revealed about the adverse health effects of
recreational cannabis use? Addiction. 110(1):19–35.
Silverman, D. (2005) Doing qualitative research, 2nd edition. London: Sage.
Tarr, B., Launay, J., & Dunbar, R. I. M. (2016). Silent disco: strangers dancing in synchrony have an elevated pain
threshold and feel socially close. Evolution and Human Behavior, 37, 343–349.
Tarr, B., Launay, J., Cohen, E., & Dunbar, R. (2015). Synchrony and exertion during dance independently raise pain
threshold and encourage social bonding. Biology Letters, 11, 0767.
WHO, (2011). Global Information System on Alcohol and Health. Geneva: World Health Organization.
World Health Organization (2010). Global status report on alcohol and health. Geneva: World Health Organization.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2011). Global status report on alcohol and health. Retrieved from
http://www.who.int/substance_abuse/publications/ global_alcohol_report/msbgsruprofiles.pdfAccessed 20th March
2014.
Page 14 of 14
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.710.9262 625
Iyiani, C. C., Iwuagwu, A. O., Ngwu, C. N., Agholor, S. E., Eyang, B. O., & Okah, P. S. (2020). Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults
in Nsukka, Nigeria. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 7(10) 612-625.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2012). Youth violence and alcohol fact sheet. Retrieved from
http://www.who.int/violence_injury_prevention/violence/ world_report /factsheets/ft_youth.pdf Accessed 26th
August 2019.
Yakasai, B.A. (2010). The menace of drug abuse. The Nigerian Airforce Magazine, 17(1), 89-93.
Yisa I.O., Lawoyin T.O., Fatiregun A.A, Emelumadu O.F (2009). Pattern of substance use among senior students of
command secondary schools in Ibadan, Nigeria. Nigeria Journal of Medicine.18(1):98–102.
Yusuf, F.A. (2010). Factors influencing substance abuse among undergraduate students in Osun State African Research
Review, 4(17), 330-340.