| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5120302 | Drug and Alcohol Dependence | 2017 | 10 Pages |
â¢Survival analysis on the effect of age of drinking onset on psychiatric outcomes.â¢Early onset of drinking increased rates of use and misuse of several drugs.â¢Age at first drink predicted development but not rates of AUD and other disorders.â¢Later onset of alcohol use might indicate pre-existing depression.
IntroductionAlthough underage drinking is a global concern, little is known about the relationship between age at first drink and development of various psychiatric comorbidities.MethodsA secondary data analysis was done among 2928 lifetime drinkers from the Thai National Mental Health Survey 2013. Age at first drink, and onset of related psychiatric outcomes were inquired. Survival analysis using Cox regression was performed to estimate the risk over time for psychiatric problems across age ranges at first drink.ResultsTwo-thirds of male and one-third of female drinkers were considered underage at drinking onset. Substance use and abuse developed earlier (<5 years) than alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and other outcomes (mostly >10 years). Those who started drinking before age 15 years were more likely to develop use of cannabis (HRÂ =Â 4.75; 95% CI 2.73, 8.24), club drugs (HRÂ =Â 2.88; 95% CI 1.46, 5.71) and inhalants (HRÂ =Â 6.46; 95% CI% 1.64, 25.37), compared to those who were 20 years or older at drinking onset. Using age as an alternative time-scale, those aged <15Â years at drinking onset were significantly more likely to experience AUDs, psychotic symptoms, intermittent explosive disorder and panic disorder. However, the early onset drinkers were less likely to develop depression compared to those who started at age 20 years and over.ConclusionPremature alcohol consumption tends to be a gateway to various serious consequences. Efforts of such drinking age policy and interventions are needed to address vulnerable young populations.
