Problem drinking in first – year students at the University of Zagreb

Aim: The aim of this analysis was to investigate the problem drinking among first year university students in Zagreb and differences upon different scientific fields of study. Methods: The data used were obtained from the research about health behaviours and perception of preventive activities of first year university students in Zagreb, part of the scientific project of the Ministry of science, education and sport »Characteristics, trends and determinants of addictive behaviour in youth«, 2009. The sample of 1939 students (900 males, 1039 females) was stratified by gender and type of university studies. Results: 72,4% of first year university students in Zagreb drink alcohol beverages. Almost every fifth student might have some reasons for concern about drinking alcohol. For 5,9% of male and 1,1% of female students, most likely a problem with the consumption of alcoholic beverages exists. Conclusion: Problem drinking differences in different scientific fields of study exist for female students. Screening for at-risk or heavy drinking should be built in as a normal part of school medicine screenings. All students have to be included in the strategy of health promotion and universal prevention programs.