Psychoactive substances consumption in French fishermen and merchant seamen

The aim of this study is to assess tobacco consumption, nicotine dependence as diagnosed by Fagerström test, alcohol consumption, alcohol dependence as diagnosed by CAGE questionnaire and drug consumption in French seamen. Results are presented according to job category: fishermen and merchant seamen.

French seamen were recruited from a stratified survey of 19 ports in France. Subjects completed a questionnaire during their annual medical check-up. The questionnaire covered demographic and professional items, tobacco, alcohol and drug consumption behaviour. Nicotine and alcohol dependence were, respectively, assessed by the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) and a French version of the CAGE questionnaire. A urine test was used to detect cannabis derivatives.

Prevalence rates for current smoking and daily alcohol consumption were higher in fishermen than merchant seamen. The prevalence of nicotine dependence on FTND was likewise higher in fisherman smokers, who also showed more intense smoking behaviour. The category of seamen did not correlate with alcohol addiction, but differences in alcohol-related behaviour emerged between fishermen and merchant seamen. Prevalence of cannabis and other drug use was higher in merchant seamen, although the two categories of seaman did not differ with respect to recent use of cannabis. Demographic factors cannot fully explain these differences, as multivariate analysis showed significantly greater risks in marine fisheries.

Alcohol and tobacco consumption are a major public health problem for seafarers. Fishermen seem to be more liable to high consumption. Working conditions may explain these differences.