The epidemiology of alcohol consumption is associated with risky behaviors on the West Bank: a cross-sectional study

Purpose Alcohol use is linked to several negative physical, psychological and social consequences, making it a significant global health issue. This study aims to focus on the factors and patterns of alcohol consumption among adults in the West Bank of Palestine, as well as its association with hazardous behaviors. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey including 1,043 adult Palestinians aged 18–69 years in the West Bank was conducted between July and September 2024. A proportional stratified sampling method was used in the northern, central and southern regions of the West Bank. An online self-administered survey included sociodemographic data; the AUDIT criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder; alcohol-related risk behaviors, including substance use, violence and gambling; and inquiries regarding adult alcohol consumption, motivations, barriers and reinforcers. Findings Overall, 5.75% reported being alcohol users, with a higher prevalence among males (7.57%) than females (3.46%) (p = 0.005). Among current users, 75% engaged in binge drinking at least once, whereas 18.2% exhibited severe-moderate alcohol dependence. The data revealed that high-risk behaviors were associated with alcohol use. Compared with nonusers, a substantial 68.3% of alcohol users smoke cigarettes, 70% consume energy drinks, 30% engage in violent activities and 23.3% use illicit drugs (p < 0.05). Research limitations/implications This study has several limitations that should be addressed. First, relying on self-reported data may have introduced some bias. The participants might have downplayed or overstated their alcohol use and risky behaviors, possibly because of memory gaps or wanting to present themselves in a certain way. Additionally, as this is a cross-sectional study, it captures only a single point in time, giving us a snapshot of alcohol consumption but not enough to understand how drinking habits and risky behaviors influence each other over time. This limits our ability to determine the causes and effects of alcohol use and related behaviors. The cultural stigma surrounding alcohol in Palestinian society may have also led to underreporting, as participants feared social consequences. Longitudinal data are needed to understand the long-term effects of alcohol consumption and dependency on or tracking changes in alcohol consumption patterns. Future studies would benefit from incorporating longitudinal designs and more in-depth qualitative research to explore these issues better in the Palestinian context. Social implications The strength of this study lies in its pioneering nature as the first comprehensive investigation into the epidemiology of alcohol consumption and its association with risky behaviors among young adults in Palestine. By addressing this critical public health issue within a cultural context that traditionally stigmatizes alcohol use, this research provides valuable insights into the prevalence of alcohol use, motivations for alcohol consumption and associated risks specific to the Palestinian population. This foundational work highlights the urgent need for awareness and intervention strategies. It serves as a crucial reference point for future research and public health initiatives to address alcohol-related issues in the region. Originality/value This study’s findings highlight the urgent need for public health programs to expand treatment access, decrease stigma and obtain a better understanding of the variables that impact alcohol consumption.