Citation

Plotnikoff RC, Costigan SA, Kennedy SG, Robards S, Germov J, Wild C. J. Am. Coll. Health 2019; 67(1): 68-84.

Affiliation

School of Public Health, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2018.1462821

PMID

29652638

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.

Language: en

Keywords

Alcohol; college; other drugs; smoking; student; university