Prevalence and factors associated with risky alcohol consumption in nursing students at the university of Castilla-La Mancha

Abstract Introduction Alcohol consumption in university students is a public health problem that is especially relevant nursing students because of their role as future health professionals. Aims To analyze the prevalence of hazardous drinkers and associated factors in nursing students from the Faculty of Nursing of Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha. Methods Descriptive cross-sectional study in 296 students of the Faculty of Nursing of Albacete (Spain) during the academic year 2023–2024. Sociodemographic variables, lifestyle habits and alcohol consumption data were collected validated questionnaires (ISCA and IPAQ-SF). Bivariate analyses and logistic regression were performed to explore associations. Results A total of 10.8% of the participants were classified as hazardous drinkers, with a higher prevalence in women (12.1%) than in men (4.2%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Smoking was associated with alcohol consumption (OR: 0.214). No significant associations were found with social class or type of coexistence, although a greater trend was observed among those who resided outside the family home. In men, coming from intermediate locations was associated with a higher prevalence of hazardous drinkers (p = 0.004). Conclusions The prevalence of hazardous drinkers in nursing students was lower than that reported in other university populations, possibly influenced by their training in health. The association between smoking and alcohol consumption is highlighted, highlighting the need for integrated preventive strategies that promote healthy habits and train these future professionals to address the risk behaviors of their patients in their clinical practice.