The Influence of Health Literacy on Alcohol Consumption Behaviors Among the Working-Age Population in Kaeo Saen Subdistrict, Na Bon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

       This cross-sectional study aimed to assess health literacy levels and alcohol consumption behaviors, and to analyze the influence of health literacy on alcohol use among the working-age population (aged 15 - 59 years) in Kaeo Saen Subdistrict, Na Bon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The sample consisted of 215 individuals selected through simple random sampling via a non-replacement lottery method. The research instruments included a health literacy assessment for alcohol consumers-validated with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.82 -and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) developed by the World Health Organization. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum values , as well as stepwise multiple regression analysis.
        The results revealed that a combined 67.44% of alcohol consumers had inadequate or problematic health literacy levels, while only 21.86% and 10.70% reached sufficient and excellent levels, respectively. Regarding consumption behavior, the majority were classified as hazardous drinkers (65.12%), followed by low-risk drinkers (18.60%), while harmful and dependent drinkers accounted for 12.56% and 3.72%, respectively. The regression model was statistically significant (F = 173.364, p < 0.001), accounting for 62.10% of the variance in alcohol consumption behavior (R2 = 0.621). Decision-making and inquiry skills were found to have a significant negative correlation with alcohol consumption, indicating that higher proficiency in these skills leads to reduced alcohol use; decision-making skill was the most influential factor. It is recommended that health literacy be enhanced, particularly in decision-making and inquiry skills. Strategies should include developing easy-to-understand health media, creating environments that discourage drinking, and providing holistic therapy for harmful drinkers. In conclusion, strengthening individual skills alongside community-based surveillance and policy support will help reduce risky drinking and its long-term impacts.