Risk/protective factors for alcohol binge and heavy drinking among adult’s racial minorities in the United States

Binge and heavy drinking are pressing public health issues in the U.S., with substantial variations across racial and ethnic groups. This study examines how various risk and protective factors impact binge and heavy drinking. Data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) were analyzed, focusing on adults aged 18 and older (N = 71,369). Weighted adjusted logistic regression was employed to examine the influence of various risk and protective factors on alcohol consumption across different racial, gender, age, and urban groups. Nicotine dependence significantly increased odds of binge drinking (OR: 1.282) and heavy drinking (OR: 1.650). Hispanic individuals had the highest binge drinking odds (OR: 1.232), while Asians had the lowest (OR: 0.595). Black individuals had lower odds of heavy drinking (OR: 0.728). Older adults (50+) showed higher perceived risk for heavy drinking (OR: 1.575). Government assistance also raised the odds for binge (OR: 1.307) and heavy drinking (OR: 1.390), and perceived great risk of daily binge drinking reduced odds of heavy drinking (OR: 0.425). A multifaceted approach is needed to reduce binge and heavy drinking, targeting not only mental health but also addressing co-occurring risk factors. Future studies should explore how these risk and protective factors interact across diverse populations to develop effective public health strategies. Racial disparities suggest that specific groups may benefit from tailored interventions that address cultural and socioeconomic contexts.