Drinking patterns in the American Deep South

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Investigating regional variations in alcohol consumption patterns is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Understanding cultural influences on drinking norms can inform targeted interventions.
• Previous research suggests potential differences in alcohol use across US regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if Deep South states exhibit dual drinking norms: high abstinence alongside high consumption among drinkers.
• To compare alcohol consumption and heavy drinking patterns in the Deep South with other US regions.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of survey data from 65,216 respondents across four Deep South states and four other leading states (1990-1993).
• Data collected via telephone interviews through the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).
• Comparison of drinking patterns, including abstinence and episodic heavy drinking, across different demographic groups and regions.

Main Results:

• The Deep South region exhibited a significantly higher proportion of alcohol abstainers compared to other regions.
• Among individuals who consumed alcohol, there was no increased likelihood of episodic heavy drinking in the Deep South.
• Factors associated with higher likelihood of drinking included higher education, income, younger age, male gender, and white race, with no significant regional association for heavy drinking.

Conclusions:

• The Deep South is characterized by a higher prevalence of alcohol abstainers.
• Drinking norms in the Deep South do not appear to involve higher rates of heavy drinking occasions among those who consume alcohol.
• Findings suggest complex interplay between regional culture, demographics, and alcohol consumption behaviors.