Prevalence and factors associated with alcohol use disorder in the China-Myanmar border region: A cross-sectional study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62992/v894qc38Keywords:
AUD, Kachin state, Urban and ruralAbstract
Background: In Myanmar, over half of men aged 18 and above consume alcohol with Kachin State facing unique challenges like political instability and language barriers. Despite the high prevalence, limited data exists on alcohol use disorder (AUD) in this region particularly among men.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of AUD, compare alcohol consumption patterns between urban and rural populations and identify factors associated with AUD in the China-Myanmar border region.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from April 2024 to March 2025 in Kachin State, Myanmar focusing on three townships along the Myanmar-China border. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and a Generalized Linear Mixed Model with logistic regression were used for data analysis.
Results: Among 428 participants, the study found significant urban-rural differences in demographics, occupation and health behaviours. Rural residents were older, had lower education levels, and were more likely to be manual labourers and smokers. Urban residents had better knowledge of AUD, while rural residents were more likely to view alcohol consumption as inappropriate. The prevalence of AUD was significantly higher in rural areas (45.52%, 95% CI: 39.63–51.55%) compared to urban areas (30.63%, 95% CI: 23.93–38.25%). Factors associated with AUD included lower education (AOR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.01–2.84 for secondary education; AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.03–3.22 for no formal or primary education), smoking (AOR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.61–4.06) and neutral or positive attitudes toward alcohol consumption (AOR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.40–3.41).
Conclusion: AUD was more prevalent in rural areas than in urban areas. Lower education, smoking and permissive attitudes toward alcohol consumption were strongly associated with AUD. These findings underscored the need for targeted interventions particularly in rural areas to enhance awareness, promote healthier behaviours and address socioeconomic determinants of alcohol misuse.
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