OBJECTIVE:
to describe the prevalence of heavy drinking in the Brazilian population, according to sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, in 2013.
METHODS:
a descriptive study was conducted with National Health Survey (PNS) data regarding heavy drinking in the 30 days prior to interview, among individuals aged≥18 years. Prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated.
RESULTS:
overall prevalence was 13.7% (95%CI 13.1; 14.2%). It was higher among men (21.6%; 95%CI 20.7; 22.5%) compared to women (6.6%; 95%CI 6.1; 7.1%). Higher prevalence was found among young adults (18-29 years: 18.8%; 95%CI 17.5; 20.0%), those with black skin color (16.6%; 95%CI 14.9; 18.4%), occasional smokers (35.2%; 95%CI 30.4; 40.0%), individuals who rated their health as good or very good (15.6%; 95%CI 14.9, 16.3%) and with no reported morbidities.
CONCLUSION:
prevalence of heavy drinking showed notable differences according to sociodemographic and health-related characteristics.
Alcohol Intoxication; Health Surveys; Epidemiology, Descriptive
