Alcohol use and problem drinking in South Africa: results from a national-population-based survey 2014-2015

The aim of this study was to estimate the pattern of alcohol use among South African adults by their socio-demographic and health status indicators . We analysed data from a 2014/2015 South African national population-based survey which sampled 22 752 adults (mean age 37 .1 years, SD = 17 .6, age range of 15-109 years) . Results indicate 3 .9% were hazardous or harmful alcohol users . In adjusted logistic regression analysis, both men and women who self-reported to use tobacco, and women to have hypertension, were at higher risk for harmful alcohol use . Age and socioeconomic status moderated harmful alcohol use among men so that those in middle age (35-49 years) and with above average household income were at lower risk for hazardous or harmful alcohol use . Socio-demographic factors appear to primarily influence risk for hazardous or harmful alcohol use among South African adults .