PATTERNS OF ALCOHOL-CONSUMPTION, SMOKING AND ILLICIT DRUG-USE IN BRITISH UNIVERSITY-STUDENTS - INTERFACULTY COMPARISONS

The use of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs was investigated by ques tionnaire in 3699 second year students in ten UK universities. Pattern s of use varied considerably between different faculty groups. Tobacco use was most prevalent in arts, social science and biological science students, among whom 36-39% of men and nearly one third of women were regular smokers, and least in female veterinary students (5%). Alcoho l consumption was greatest in biological science students: 23% of thos e who drank exceeded 'hazardous' levels compared with 10-16% in all ot her faculties. Prevalence of cannabis use was highest in arts and soci al science students of whom 27% reported regular weekly use compared w ith 9-22% in other faculties. Experience with other illicit drugs was greatest among arts, social science and physical science students, of whom 64-71% reported experience at least once or twice, and least amon g veterinary students (42%). Identification of different lifestyles ma y help to direct appropriate health information to particular student groups. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.