Growth and Weight Status in Adolescents with Alcohol Use Disorders
Author Information
Author(s): Celeste E Naude, Marjanne Senekal, Ria Laubscher, Paul D Carey, George Fein
Primary Institution: Stellenbosch University
Hypothesis
Anthropometric indices of growth and weight status may be different in adolescents with alcohol use disorders compared to light/non-drinking control adolescents.
Conclusion
Adolescent females with alcohol use disorders may have an increased risk of being overweight or obese compared to those without these disorders.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescents with alcohol use disorders had significantly higher lifetime alcohol doses compared to controls.
- Growth and weight status were generally comparable between the AUD and control groups.
- Female adolescents with AUDs had increased odds of being overweight/obese after adjusting for confounding factors.
Takeaway
This study looked at how drinking alcohol affects the growth and weight of teenagers. It found that girls who drink a lot may be more likely to be overweight.
Methodology
The study assessed substance use, growth indices, dietary intake, and physical activity in adolescents with alcohol use disorders and matched controls.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data on alcohol consumption and dietary intake.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causation.
Participant Demographics
Adolescents aged 12-16 years, low socio-economic status, English or Afrikaans-speaking.
Statistical Information
P-Value
< 0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website