1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Alcohol abuse remains a significant global public health issue that affects millions of individuals across different age groups. According to the World Health Organization (2018), alcohol consumption is linked to more than 3 million deaths annually worldwide, contributing to a range of health and social problems. The impact of alcohol abuse on health behavior is profound, influencing decision-making, lifestyle choices, and overall well-being (World Health Organization, 2018). Youth, often defined as individuals between 15 and 24 years, are at a critical developmental stage where habits and behaviors are formed that may last a lifetime (Johnston et al., 2020). During this period, alcohol abuse can lead to detrimental health behaviors such as risky sexual activity, poor dietary habits, and increased likelihood of engaging in violence or accidents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021).
According to Squeglia et al. (2015), the adolescent brain is still developing, making youth more susceptible to the harmful neurological effects of alcohol, which may impair cognitive functions and academic performance (Squeglia et al., 2015). On the other hand, older adults face unique challenges related to alcohol abuse. This group may use alcohol as a coping mechanism for issues like loneliness, chronic pain, or mental health disorders (Blazer & Wu, 2012). However, alcohol abuse among older adults can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and liver disease. Additionally, it can interact negatively with prescription medications, increasing the risk of falls, memory loss, and reduced physical functioning (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [NIAAA], 2019). The differing patterns and consequences of alcohol abuse in youth and older adults suggest the need for age-specific research and interventions. While many studies have examined alcohol abuse in either youth or older adults separately, there is limited comparative research exploring how alcohol abuse influences health behaviors across these two age groups.
Alcohol abuse is defined as the excessive and harmful consumption of alcoholic beverages that negatively impacts an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being (World Health Organization [WHO], 2018). It is a widespread public health concern that affects various age groups, including both youth and older adults. The behavior related to alcohol abuse often leads to risky health practices, impaired judgment, and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases (Rehm et al., 2017).
Youth, generally categorized as individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, are particularly vulnerable to alcohol abuse due to peer pressure, social influences, and a tendency towards experimentation (Johnston et al., 2020). This demographic often exhibits risky health behaviors such as unsafe sexual practices, poor nutrition, and irregular physical activity patterns, which are exacerbated by excessive alcohol consumption (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). Conversely, older adults, typically those aged 60 and above, may experience alcohol abuse differently, often in the context of coping with loneliness, chronic illness, or psychological distress (Blazer & Wu, 2012). Alcohol use in this group can interfere with medication, worsen existing health conditions, and impair cognitive and motor functions, thereby influencing their overall health behavior and quality of life (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [NIAAA], 2019). Therefore, this study aims to explore these influences to contribute to better health outcomes through targeted awareness and prevention programs.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that alcohol abuse is a persistent challenge that negatively affects the health behaviors of both youth and older adults, yet many people still underestimate its far-reaching consequences. Among youth, alcohol abuse is often linked to poor decision-making, risky sexual behavior, and increased vulnerability to accidents and injuries, which is a significant concern for families and communities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). Despite numerous awareness campaigns, young people continue to engage in harmful drinking patterns that undermine their physical and mental health, as well as their academic and social development (Johnston et al., 2020).
For older adults, alcohol abuse is often overlooked or dismissed as a lesser problem, but it is equally, if not more, dangerous. It is common for older individuals to use alcohol as a way to cope with loneliness, chronic pain, or emotional distress, which is a hidden but serious health risk (Blazer & Wu, 2012). Alcohol misuse in this group is linked to worsened chronic conditions, harmful interactions with medications, and cognitive impairments that reduce their quality of life and independence (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [NIAAA], 2019). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by investigating the influence of alcohol abuse on the health behaviors of both youth and older adults, with the goal of informing public health policies and targeted intervention programs.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of alcohol abuse on the health behavior of youth and older adults.
The objectives of the study are as follows:
- To assess the impact of alcohol abuse on mental health, physical health, and social interactions among youth and older adults.
- To explore the differences in alcohol-related health risks and consequences between youth and older adults.
- To examine the patterns and prevalence of alcohol abuse among youth and older adults.
- To identify the specific health behaviors affected by alcohol abuse in both age groups.
- To investigate the factors that contribute to alcohol abuse in youth and older adults.
- To recommend age-appropriate intervention strategies to reduce alcohol abuse and its negative effects on health behavior.
1.4 Research Questions
Based on the objectives of the study, the following research questions have been formulated:
- What are the patterns and prevalence of alcohol abuse among youth and older adults?
- Which specific health behaviors are most affected by alcohol abuse in youth and older adults?
- How does alcohol abuse impact mental health, physical health, and social interactions in these two age groups?
- What are the key differences in alcohol-related health risks and consequences between youth and older adults?
- What factors contribute to alcohol abuse among youth and older adults?
- What intervention strategies are most effective in reducing alcohol abuse and its negative effects on health behavior for each age group?
1.5 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will contribute to improving public health education by emphasizing the importance of age-appropriate prevention programs, which will promote healthier lifestyle choices among youth and older adults.
Additionally, this study will inform future research by identifying gaps in knowledge regarding alcohol-related health behaviors across different age groups, which will foster the development of more effective treatment and support systems.
Furthermore, families and caregivers will benefit as the study will raise awareness about the signs and consequences of alcohol abuse, empowering them to provide timely support and intervention to affected youth and older adults.
Lastly, educational institutions will find the findings useful in designing targeted awareness campaigns and counseling services that will discourage alcohol abuse among young people and promote healthier behaviors.
1.6 Scope of Study
This study focuses on assessing the influence of alcohol abuse on the health behavior of youth and older adults within Lagos State, Nigeria. The research will target individuals aged 15 to 24 years as representatives of the youth population and those aged 60 years and above representing older adults.
Data will be collected from selected communities, health centers, and social organizations across Lagos State to examine patterns of alcohol consumption and its effects on physical, mental, and social health behaviors specific to this demographic and geographic area.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
Several limitations were encountered during the course of this study, which may have influenced the results and conclusions.
- Delay from Respondents: Many participants experienced time constraints or hesitated to commit to the study due to their busy schedules. This delay limited the volume of data that could be gathered within the planned timeframe.
- Financial Constraints: Due to budget limitations, there was insufficient funding to expand the research to a larger sample size or to include more varied geographic locations, which might have provided a broader perspective.
- Time Constraints: The time available for conducting the study was limited, reducing the possibility of performing a more in-depth longitudinal analysis.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Alcohol Abuse: Alcohol abuse refers to the excessive or inappropriate consumption of alcoholic beverages that negatively affects an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2018), it involves drinking patterns that increase the risk of harmful consequences for the user or others. In this study, alcohol abuse means drinking habits that interfere with daily life, health, and relationships.
Health Behavior: Health behavior encompasses the actions individuals take that influence their health positively or negatively, including lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, substance use, and adherence to medical advice (Glanz, Rimer, & Viswanath, 2015). Here, it refers to behaviors affected by alcohol use that impact the physical and mental well-being of youth and older adults.
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