Factors Associated with Binge Drinking Among Brazilian Graduate Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Binge drinking is characterized by the excessive consumption of alcohol within a short period of time, resulting in several adverse effects on health and social life. Despite the relevance of this issue, few studies have specifically investigated this behavior among graduate students. This study identified factors associated with binge drinking among Brazilian graduate students.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to July 2022 using an electronic questionnaire that assessed binge drinking, sociodemographic and academic characteristics, as well as physical and mental health history. Binge drinking was defined as any response other than "never" to the third question of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Participants included stricto sensu graduate students, aged 18 years or older, residing in Brazil, and with internet access. The final sample consisted of 4,062 participants. Bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regression were performed.

The prevalence of binge drinking was 57.3%. In addition, 33% screened positive for suspected common mental disorders (SRQ-20). Older age was identified as a protective factor, whereas risk factors included being male, identifying as "other" in sexual orientation, not professing the evangelical religion or having no religion, studying in the fields of engineering, agricultural sciences, or humanities, reporting dissatisfaction with remote learning, smoking, and screening positive for common mental disorders.

The findings highlight the need for specific strategies aimed at preventing binge drinking and promoting mental health among Brazilian graduate students.