Chat-Based Messaging Lowered Alcohol Use in At-Risk College Students
Chat-Based Messaging Lowered Alcohol Use in At-Risk College Students Medpage Today
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Chat-Based Instant Messaging Reduces Drinking in College Students at Risk of Alcohol Use Disorder
A randomized clinical trial conducted in Hong Kong has found that chat-based instant messaging following a brief intervention can effectively reduce drinking in college students who are at risk of alcohol use disorder. The study, which emphasizes the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), compared the effects of mobile chat-based instant messaging and SMS text messaging for follow-up.
Key Findings:
- Participants who received chat-based instant messaging support had lower weekly alcohol consumption and alcohol unit consumption compared to those who received SMS text messaging.
- The intervention group also reported less intention to drink.
- Participants in the intervention group had lower Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores compared to the control group.
This trial is the first to demonstrate that chat-based messaging, when combined with a brief intervention, can effectively reduce drinking in at-risk college students. The researchers highlight that instant messaging services offer better interactions with users in real time, allowing for more intervention delivery modalities.
Methodology:
- The study recruited 772 students from eight universities in Hong Kong who were at high risk of alcohol use disorder.
- All participants received an alcohol brief intervention (ABI) that included face-to-face or video conferencing with nurses, as well as a booklet outlining the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption.
- Participants were then randomized to either the chat-based intervention group or the SMS messaging control group.
- The intervention group received chat-based instant messaging support for 3 months, focusing on behavioral change techniques to reduce alcohol consumption.
- The control group received text messages for 3 months, focusing on general health topics.
Implications and Future Research:
The study highlights the potential of chat-based instant messaging as a tool for reducing drinking in college students at risk of alcohol use disorder. Further research is needed to explore the effects of chat-based instant messaging support in other demographics. The findings of this study align with the SDGs, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Source:
JAMA Internal Medicine: Chau SL, et al “A brief intervention with instant messaging or regular text messaging support in reducing alcohol use: A randomized clinical trial” JAMA Intern Med 2024; DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.0343.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The issues highlighted in the article are related to alcohol use disorder and its impact on college students. This connects to SDG 3, which focuses on promoting good health and well-being. Additionally, the article mentions the use of educational interventions and behavioral change techniques, which aligns with SDG 4 on quality education. The mention of Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores also relates to SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, as alcohol consumption can have negative effects on water resources. The article also touches on the importance of reducing inequalities in access to interventions and support, which is relevant to SDG 10. Finally, the mention of the trial being the first to show the effectiveness of chat-based messaging in reducing drinking highlights the importance of research and strong institutions, linking to SDG 16.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
- Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles
- Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
- Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status
- Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels
The article’s content supports the targets mentioned above. The focus on reducing alcohol use disorder aligns with Target 3.5 under SDG 3. The use of educational interventions and behavioral change techniques relates to Target 4.7 under SDG 4. The mention of reducing alcohol consumption and its impact on water resources connects to Target 6.3 under SDG 6. The emphasis on providing support and interventions to at-risk college students addresses Target 10.2 under SDG 10. Finally, the need for further research and strong institutions is in line with Target 16.6 under SDG 16.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Alcohol consumption in grams per week
- Alcohol unit consumption per week
- AUDIT scores (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test)
- Engagement with chat-based messaging intervention
The article mentions several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. The reduction in alcohol consumption in grams per week and alcohol unit consumption per week can be used as indicators to measure progress towards Target 3.5 under SDG 3. The change in AUDIT scores, which assess alcohol use disorders, can also be used as an indicator for the same target. Additionally, the level of engagement with the chat-based messaging intervention can be measured to assess the effectiveness of interventions and progress towards Target 10.2 under SDG 10.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol | – Alcohol consumption in grams per week – Alcohol unit consumption per week – AUDIT scores (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles | – Engagement with chat-based messaging intervention |
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and increasing recycling and safe reuse globally | – Alcohol consumption and its impact on water resources |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status | – Engagement with chat-based messaging intervention |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels | – Need for further research and strong institutions |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: medpagetoday.com
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