Efficacy of interventions targeting alcohol,drug and smoking behaviors in university and college students: A review of randomized controlled trials |
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| Authors: | Ronald C Plotnikoff Sarah A Costigan Sarah G Kennedy Sara L Robards John Germov Cameron Wild |
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| Institution: | 1. Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Australia;2. School of Exercise &3. Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia;4. School of Humanities and Social Science, Faculty of Education and Arts, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Newcastle, Australia;5. School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
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| Abstract: | Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions targeting alcohol consumption, drug use and smoking for college/university students.Participants: College/University students.Methods: Studies were eligible if: (1)included students attending universities/colleges; (2)implemented in a university/college setting; (3)aimed to improve at least one of the following behaviors: alcohol and/or drug use and/or smoking; (4)were RCTs. The effect of the interventions on behaviors was determined by the percentage of studies that reported an effect. Due to the heterogeneity of outcomes meta-analysis was not conducted.Results: 88 studies met criteria. University-based interventions were effective for reducing alcohol-related outcomes (drinking patterns, BAC, consequences, problem drinking). Inconsistent findings for drug and smoking were observed.Conclusions: University-based interventions have the potential to improve health for students. While there is a breadth of research examining the efficacy of interventions to reduce alcohol consumption, further research is needed to determine the best approach for addressing smoking and drug use among students. |
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| Keywords: | University college student Alcohol smoking other drugs |
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