Abstract
The increase in alcohol consumption among college students has increased concerns among researchers seeking effective preventive interventions to decrease their consumption. This study assessed the pattern of alcohol consumption and its consequences before and after applying the BASICS intervention (Brief Alcohol Screnning and Intervention for College Students) in a sample of Brazilian university, with mostly female students (53.1%) aged between 18 and 24 years (84.4%). The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index (RAPI) tools were used to characterize alcohol consumption and its consequences. Those who scored above eight on the AUDIT were invited to participate in an experimental or control group. Data analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between groups. In both groups there were: a decrease in used dosages, less practice of binge drinking, and decrease in some negative consequences. This result indicates an important contribution in the area and suggests that the screening of alcohol consumption pattern and its respective feedback can generate positive effects in the reduction of alcohol consumption, as well as its consequences among college students.
College students; alcohol abuse; early intervention; prevention
