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Does alcohol outlet density affect youth access to alcohol?
Meng-Jinn Chen1, Paul J Gruenewald, Lillian G Remer
1Prevention Research Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, 1995 University Avenue, Suite 450, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA. mengjinn@prev.org
Summary
Higher alcohol outlet density in communities is linked to increased adolescent alcohol access. This includes obtaining alcohol from stores, social sources, and family members, impacting youth alcohol acquisition.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Community factors significantly influence adolescent health behaviors.
- Understanding environmental influences on youth substance use is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between community alcohol outlet density and adolescent alcohol access.
- To identify how the proximity of alcohol retailers affects young people's ability to obtain alcohol.
Main Methods:
- A three-wave panel study surveyed 1028 adolescents (aged 14-16 at baseline) via telephone.
- Participants were recruited from 50 California zip codes with diverse alcohol outlet densities and income levels.
- Multilevel linear growth models were used for data analysis, controlling for individual and socioeconomic factors.
Main Results:
- Increased alcohol outlet density in zip codes was significantly associated with higher initial levels of alcohol access among adolescents.
- This association held after accounting for individual characteristics and median household income.
- Adolescents in high-density areas reported greater likelihood and frequency of obtaining alcohol from various sources.
Conclusions:
- High concentrations of alcohol outlets in a community facilitate adolescent access to alcohol.
- Youth can access alcohol through commercial sources, social networks, and family in areas with high outlet density.
- Environmental strategies addressing alcohol outlet density may be key to reducing youth alcohol access.
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