Alcohol consumption in a southern European region (Galicia, Spain).

UNLABELLED

Galicia is a distinct region and an autonomous community of Spain with its own cultural identity. Two-thirds of the 2.7 million inhabitants live in the rural, reservoir of the traditional culture. Alcohol use is deeply rooted in Galician culture, and its abuse constitutes an important public health problem.

OBJECTIVES

To analyze changes in alcohol consumption in the Galician adult population during the two last decades and its sociodemographic correlates, focusing on rural versus urban differences.

METHODS

The principal source of epidemiological information is the Galicia Study of Mental Health of Adult Population, the first household survey representative of the Galician population, in which a sample of 2510 people from the population aged 16 years and older were asked about alcohol consumption in 1985. Data from subsequent surveys are also summarized and interpreted in terms of the sociocultural evolution of Galician society.

RESULTS

The per capita annual rate of alcohol consumption in Galicia was 11,167cc pure alcohol, 40% higher than the national average. Personal and social characteristics associated with high alcohol consumption included: males in their thirties and young females, farmers, and low socioeconomic status. The traditional rural model of drinking in which alcohol is perceived as a daily nourishment still predominates. However, an urban consumer model is quickly growing, especially among young women.