Ethnic and religious identity and some age characteristics of alcohol use

The sample of the study comprises 618 subjects (316 Christian-Bulgarians and 302 Muslim-Turks), selected by means of randomized cluster design, and stratified by gender, age and place of residence (town vs village). The study used a standardized questionnaire specifically developed for it. The study findings suggest that the first contact with alcohol and beginning of its regular use occur at a younger age in Bulgarians than they do in Turks. A definite trend has been found toward earlier first contact and beginning of regular use of alcohol in both ethnic groups, but it is more clearly defined in Turks. As a whole Turkish ethnic identity and identification with Muslim religious values and belief restrict the Turks in their contact with alcohol and are still significant factors in restraining alcohol use in their community.