Alcohol consumption in the Haute Matsiatra region of Madagascar: profile, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of high school students

Abstract

Introduction
Alcohol consumption among adolescents is a major public health issue worldwide due to its
physical, psychological, and social impacts. In Madagascar, specific data on this phenomenon
remain limited. This study aims to describe the sociodemographic profile and knowledge,
attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to alcohol consumption among high school students in
the Haute Matsiatra Region.
Materials and Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during the 2023–2024 school year among
high school students in the Haute Matsiatra region, selected through a two-stage sampling
process. Data were collected using the World Health Organization (WHO) standardized Global
School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS, 2021) questionnaire and analyzed using Statistical
Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20.0.
Results
A total of 2,946 high school students were included. The average age of participants was
16.8±1.3 years. The prevalence of alcohol consumption was 32.8%, with more than 85% of
students reporting their first consumption before the age of 14. In terms of knowledge, 73.9%
of students reported having had family discussions about the dangers of alcohol. In terms of
attitudes, 23.2% expressed an intention to accept a drink offered by a friend. In terms of
practices, wine was the most commonly consumed beverage (42.9%).
Conclusion
Alcohol consumption among high school students in the Haute Matsiatra region is highly
prevalent, with varying levels of knowledge and sometimes permissive attitudes. Strengthening
educational interventions in schools and communities appears essential in order to prevent early
initiation and limit the associated consequences.