The effects of peer health education on alcohol consumption behaviour among university students in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Alcohol consumption is a widespread public health issue, contributing to numerous health conditions, particularly non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In Nigeria, alcohol is culturally significant, often associated with socializing and respect. However, early alcohol use and high consumption rates among university students pose serious health risks. Peer health education has shown promise as an intervention to reduce risky health behaviours, including alcohol use. This quasi-experimental study involved university students in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, assessing alcohol consumption behaviours before and after a peer health education program. A pre-test/post-test design was used to analyse the program's effectiveness, with data collected via structured questionnaires adapted from the WHO’s STEPS survey. Analysis was conducted with SPSS software at a 0.05 level of significance. The peer health education program led to a significant reduction in alcohol use among participants, with post-test findings indicating a decrease in the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption. The program's success aligns with social learning and behavioural change theories, emphasizing the strong influence of peer-led interventions in shaping health behaviours among university students. The study confirms that peer health education is an effective approach to reduce alcohol consumption among university students, highlighting its potential for promoting healthier behaviours in university settings. This intervention could inform broader public health strategies aimed at reducing alcohol-related harms among young adults in similar contexts.