Affiliations 

  • 1 Vasudha Devi. Pharmacology, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India
  • 2 Alicia Tan Wei Ping. Student, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India
  • 3 Tan Tuan Ying, Student, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India
  • 4 Sadhin Subhash, Student, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India
  • 5 Samia Mahmood Hafez Amir, Student, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India
MyJurnal

Abstract

Several studies reveal high rates of alcohol use among college students affecting their health and performances. This cross-sectional survey was done to study medical students' drinking pattern, its predictors and to develop any possible link between their academic performance and alcohol consumption. Data was collected using newly designed, validated questionnaire from students (n= 348) who consumed and not consumed alcohol. The response rate was 60% (209/348). 94% of drinkers started consuming alcohol before entering into the medical school. Most of them (85%) drank with parents' awareness. Among drinkers, 63% were of Chinese race and 35% of Indian race. None of the Malay respondents reported of drinking. 63% of drinkers and 23% of non-drinkers reported that most of their friends consumed alcohol. Drinking was not associated with smoking or drug abuse. There were no statistically significant differences in exam scores between drinkers and nondrinkers. Non-drinkers considered religious and moral obligations for not consuming alcohol. In conclusion, at our Institute, students did not allow their alcohol use to interfere with their academic performance. The drinking habit developed during school time is more likely to continue during college years. Those who have non-drinking friends are more likely not to consume alcohol themselves. Moral and religious obligations have positive impact on alcohol intake.