UNIVERSITY STUDENT PERCEPTIONS OF ALCOHOL USE IN IRAQ AND INSIGHTS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH POLICY

Background and Aim : Iraq’s population has risen significantly since the 2003 war resulting in the majority of the population being under the age of 24. This population is especially vulnerable due to their exposure to conflict, as well as having increased exposure to alcohol use through global traditional and social media. We set out to qualitatively explore how students’ individual, interpersonal and social contexts impact their experiences and perceptions of alcohol use.Methods : Forty students from various faculties at three different universities across Iraq were interviewed (male 55%, female 45%). Interviews were either conducted in English (n = 3) or Arabic (n = 37) and then translated and transcribed to English in a one-stage process (Arabic audio to English text). Template analysis was used to examine the results in light of the socio-ecological framework and the alcohol use motivational model.Results : The perception of the prevalence of alcohol use varied among respondents. Students described a variety of motives they perceived would lead to alcohol use and misuse. Among these are as a coping strategy, because of peer pressure, and curiosity. Participants disclosed that most alcohol-related consumption was hidden, even if it led to harms. There was a spectrum of alcohol policy suggestions, however, most students favoured approaches they believed would eventually lead to informed abstinence.Conclusion : This is the first qualitative study to explore attitudes towards alcohol in Iraq. Regardless of their view, students described their experiences in a politically unstable landscape has influenced their behaviour and attitudes towards alcohol. A multi-dimensional approach to alcohol policy and health-promotion that considers young peoples’ real life experiences and challenges is needed for Iraq

Keywords:

Drinking Behaviour , Alcohol Drinking , Alcohol Drinking in College