Concurrent tobacco use and risky drinking in South Africa: results from the South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine socio-demographic and psychosocial correlates of concurrent tobacco use and risky drinking . We analysed data from the cross-sectional South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (SANHANES-1) 2011-2012 . The sample included 14 764 adolescents and adults aged 15 years and older . They responded to questions on tobacco and alcohol use, psychosocial, and socio-demographic indicators . Results indicate that 9 .6% (16 .8% among men and 3 .5% among women) of South Africans were involved in concurrent tobacco use and risky drinking, 18 .2% in current tobacco use only, and 20 .3% in risky drinking only . In covariate adjusted analysis, being 25 to 64 years, being male, belonging to the coloured population group, residing in urban areas, having experienced three or more traumatic events, and poor self-rated health were associated with concurrent tobacco use and risky drinking . Findings suggest socio-demographic and health factors are important for public health interventions in addressing concurrent tobacco and alcohol use in South Africa .