Alcohol-Related Emergency Department Visits of Young Adults in a University City in the Netherlands

Objectives This study aimed to examine the incidence and characteristics of alcohol-related emergency department (ED) visits in young adults compared with older age groups. Methods A retrospective electronic health record study of patients aged ≥18 years with an alcohol-related ED visit, including acute alcohol intoxication (AAI) and alcohol-related injuries, was conducted at Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis (RdGG) from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2024. Young adults (18 to 24 years) were compared with older age groups (25 to 39, 40 to 54, 55 to 69, >70 years) regarding visit type, blood alcohol concentration (BAC), diagnostic tests, and hospital admission. Within young adults, student status and peak visit times were analyzed. Results Of 49,226 ED visits, 888 (1.8%) were alcohol-related, including 192 (21.6%) young adults, of whom 40% were students. Men were more frequently admitted with alcohol-related injuries (36.4% vs 25.4%), women for AAI (67.8% vs 47.3%, P < .001). Alcohol-related visits were highest among young adults (4.3% vs. 0.7-2.8%, P < .001). AAI was significantly more prevalent in the 18 to 24 group than in older groups. Most injuries in young adults involved head or neck trauma (84%). Students had higher mean BACs than nonstudents (2.34 vs 1.84 g/L, P = .019). Conclusion Young adults account for the highest incidence of alcohol-related ED visits. Students exhibit higher BACs than nonstudents. These findings underscore the critical need to reduce alcohol-related harm and promote safe drinking habits among young adults especially during specific periods.