Perceived Positive Consequences Are Associated with Unhealthy Alcohol Use Among Persons Living with HIV

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Addiction Medicine
• HIV Research

Background:

• Understanding alcohol's perceived benefits is crucial for effective interventions among people living with HIV (PLWH).
• Previous research has not fully explored the factors associated with perceived positive consequences of drinking in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if perceived positive consequence scores differ based on sociodemographic, drinking, mental health, or substance use variables in PLWH.
• To identify specific factors associated with perceived positive consequences of alcohol consumption.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the PROMIS: Positive Consequences-Short Form to assess perceived positive consequences of drinking.
• Unhealthy alcohol use was measured using a modified AUDIT-C questionnaire.
• Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to identify predictors of perceived positive consequences.

Main Results:

• The study included 328 people living with HIV (PLWH) with recent alcohol consumption.
• Perceived positive consequence scores showed a positive correlation with unhealthy alcohol use, with scores increasing alongside AUDIT-C scores.
• No significant associations were found between perceived positive consequences and demographics, desire to reduce alcohol use, other substance use, depression, or anxiety.

Conclusions:

• Perceived positive consequences of alcohol consumption are significantly associated with unhealthy drinking behaviors in PLWH.
• Interventions targeting alcohol use in PLWH should consider both positive and negative consequences in a balanced approach.
• Future interventions may benefit from addressing the perceived positive aspects of drinking to improve efficacy.