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Drinking and driving in an urban setting in Kenya
1Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.
East African Medical Journal
|April 29, 1998
Summary
In Kenya, a roadside survey found 19.9% of drivers had consumed alcohol. Males, older drivers, and those in personal cars were more likely to drink and drive, highlighting the need for deterrent measures.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Traffic Safety
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Drink-driving poses a significant public health and safety risk globally.
- Kenya currently lacks a specific legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption among drivers in Eldoret, Kenya.
- To identify demographic and travel characteristics associated with drink-driving.
Main Methods:
- A roadside survey was conducted in Eldoret, Kenya, involving randomly selected drivers.
- Breathalyzer tests were used to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in 479 participants.
- Data was analyzed based on driver demographics and travel characteristics.
Main Results:
- 19.9% of drivers tested positive for alcohol (BAC ≥ 5 mg%).
- Higher BAC levels (≥ 50 mg%) were exclusively found in male drivers.
- Drivers aged 25 and above, those in personal cars, and individuals with skilled careers showed higher rates of alcohol consumption.
- Factors such as vehicle occupancy, travel distance, road location, time of night, and day of the week also influenced drink-driving probability.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a substantial prevalence of drink-driving in Eldoret, Kenya, with specific demographic groups being more affected.
- Findings underscore the urgent need for establishing a legal BAC limit and implementing targeted deterrent measures to enhance road safety.