Abstract:
Alcohol consumption and related abuse are causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide (WHO).
Consumption of alcohol in the upcountry region usually increased in amount rather than in any other
part of Sri Lanka. It is essential to know the mode of alcohol consumption among various types of
consumers. That helps to conduct a well-planned program for the prevention and control of this
catastrophic social pathology. The main scope of this study is to identify the mode of alcohol
consumption and related health issues, at the same time to expose the associating factors that lead to
alcohol consumption. Selected 50 adult males have been interviewed from the study area using a semi structured questionnaire. The study participants were selected through the purposive sampling method.
Gathered data have been analyzed using Excel and discussed. According to the research outcomes, we
have found that most of the participants agreed that they are consuming locally made alcohol and beer.
70% of the consumers have different health issues, 58% have family problems and financial struggles
due to alcohol consumption. About 40% alcohol dependent had clinical signs of chronic illness. 70%
of the consumers drank alcohol outside and during their work time. Alcohol consumers stated their
associating factors of consumption as the climate, society, family problems, poverty, and physical
soreness. According to the questionnaire survey, 74% of the participants were identified for daily
consumption of alcohol. The most considered matter is their starting age of alcohol consumption is so
young, and this study emphasizes the need for public education regarding the effects and illness of
alcohol consumption at a young age. Proper awareness and guidance could help the youngsters to
overcome the addiction. Public places and workplaces are the main areas to conduct awareness and
intervention programs.
