International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care
Volume 11, Issue 3, 2015, Pages 158-168

Alcohol use among Bhutanese refugees in Nepal (Article)

Hewlett M. , Merry L. , Mishra A. , Islam R. , Wali R.M. , Gagnon A.*
  • a Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
  • b Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
  • c Migration Health Department, International Organization for Migration, Damak, Nepal
  • d Migration Health Department, International Organization for Migration, Damak, Nepal
  • e Migration Health Department, Damak, Nepal
  • f Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, Canada

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore factors associated with alcohol use disorders (AUDs) among Bhutanese refugees in Nepal, where there has been a mass third-country resettlement operation in place since 2007. Design/methodology/approach: A case-control study was conducted in which the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) was used to confirm AUDs and participants' eligibility for placement in a case or control group. A translated questionnaire measuring demographic variables and context of drinking was also administered. Findings: In total, 128 questionnaires were completed (32 cases, 96 controls). Compared to participants without AUDs, those with AUDs were more likely to be older (36-50 years) (OR=10.5, 95 per cent CI 2.17-50.81), (50 + years) (OR=10.3, 95 per cent CI 2.02-52.71), illiterate (OR=7.3 (2.80-18.42)), use tobacco (smoking or chewing) (OR=4.3 (1.84-10.01)) and be male (OR=3.5 (1.35-8.67)). Reasons for excessive alcohol use included unemployment, unoccupied time and increased family tensions. Originality/value: The study is the first of which the authors are aware that attempts to examine risk factors associated with AUDs within the context of a mass resettlement operation where camp services are winding down. The findings of this study suggest that greater attention needs to be given toward creating meaningful activities for adult, less educated male migrants awaiting resettlement. © 2015 Emerald Group Publishing Limited,.

Author Keywords

resettlement Alcohol use disorders Bhutanese refugees Nepal Case-control Forcibly displaced

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84941959717&doi=10.1108%2fIJMHSC-05-2014-0017&partnerID=40&md5=34439e5e29163b1ed784dff4c49dd3f1
DOI: 10.1108/IJMHSC-05-2014-0017
ISSN: 17479894
Original Language: English