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Alcohol use in the Army: patterns and associated behaviors
J F Greden1, S I Frenkel, D W Morgan
1Neuropsychiatric Institute, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor 48104.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|January 1, 1975
Summary
This study found that 7% of U.S. soldiers were alcoholics, with younger and lower-ranking individuals disproportionately affected. Alcohol use also correlated with illicit drug use in this population.
Area of Science:
- Military Health
- Substance Use Disorders
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Alcohol consumption is a significant public health concern, particularly within military populations.
- Understanding patterns of alcohol use and associated risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of alcohol use disorders among U.S. soldiers.
- To identify demographic and behavioral correlates of problematic alcohol consumption in a military cohort.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based assessment of alcohol use was administered to 1,873 U.S. soldiers stationed in the United States and Vietnam.
- Operational definitions based on total ethyl alcohol consumption and drinking behaviors were used for classification.
Main Results:
- 7% of soldiers were classified as alcoholics, 5% as borderline alcoholics, and 24% as potential alcoholics.
- Contrary to stereotypes, younger and lower-ranking soldiers were disproportionately represented in these groups.
- A positive association was observed between alcohol consumption and the use of illicit drugs.
Conclusions:
- Problematic alcohol use is prevalent in U.S. soldiers, with specific demographic vulnerabilities.
- Future research should standardize the measurement of total ethyl alcohol intake for improved generalizability.
- Findings highlight the need for tailored substance abuse prevention and treatment programs within the military.