Alcohol Use among Tricycle Riders in Jos Nigeria

Abstract

Background Driving under the influence of alcohol contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality globally. Studies have reported high prevalence of alcohol use among commercial drivers in many parts of the worldbut such studies have not been reported, to our knowledge, among tricycle drivers even though they play an important role in inner city transport in many cities.The purpose of this studytherefore was to determine the pattern of alcohol use and drink driving among tricycle drivers in Jos, Nigeria and their involvement in road traffic accidents. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 195 tricycle drivers using an interviewer administered adapted alcohol use AUDIT questionnaire. Data analysis was done with epi info statistical software version 7.2, 95% confidence interval was used with a probability value of < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results All the one hundred and ninety-five tricycle drivers studiedwere males and all consume alcohol. Most of them (67.4%) drink and drive. A hundred and seventeen (60%) of respondents have had an accident in the last year and 70% of the accidents occurred while driving after drinking alcohol. There was no significant relationship between frequency of drinking and involvement in road traffic accident. Conclusion The level of alcohol use by tricycle drivers in Jos is alarming and this increases the risk of road crashes. Effective legislation with resources for its implementation are required to reduce drink driving and traffic accidents.