The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #56837

Cheryl J. Cherpitel, DrPH, Yu Ye, MA, and Jason Bond, PhD. Alcohol Research Group, 2000 Hearst Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709, 510 642-0164, ccherpitel@arg.org

A determination of attributable risk (the proportion of injuries eliminated in the absence of alcohol) has been difficult to ascertain since most studies have not included probability samples of injury patients. These studies have also not reflected age, gender or cultural-specific differences in relative risk. Attributable risk estimates of injury, and separately of violence-related injury, are reported for 15 ER studies covering 6 countries from ERCAAP, based on drinking prior to the injury event – BAC and self-reported consumption – (acute consumption), and usual heavier drinking – frequency of drinking 5 or more drinks per occasion – (chronic consumption). Pooled effect size of attributable risk for both acute and chronic consumption for all injuries was significant (p<1.001) but minimal (2% to 7%) and heterogeneous. Risk was substantially greater for violence-related injuries, and risk attributable to acute consumption (27% - 42%) was larger (and homogeneous) than that attributed to chronic consumption (12% - 24%). Detrimental drinking pattern and homicide rate were significantly predictive of heterogeneous effects sizes for all injuries, while per capita consumption, legal level of intoxication and the level to which alcohol use is stigmatized were predictive for violence-related injuries. These data suggest that risk of injury attributable to acute consumption is greater than that attributable to usual drinking. Attributable risk is especially great for injuries related to violence, but risk may be culturally specific and affected by contextual variables. Such data will inform estimates of the global burden of disease and are important in making priority decisions regarding alcohol exposure.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of this session the learner will have a better understanding of the attributable risk of alcohol to injury for several countries.

Keywords: Alcohol Use, Emergency Department/Room

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.