Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy and the factors influencing it among pregnant women in Molyko, Buea, Cameroon. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy poses major health risks. It has been linked to adverse fetal outcomes such as fetal alcohol syndrome, low birth weight, and developmental delays. Understanding alcohol use during pregnancy is essential for developing effective interventions.

This cross-sectional study involved pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Molyko. Participants completed a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire covered demographic details, knowledge of alcohol risks, and patterns of alcohol use. To assess alcohol use levels, the study applied the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis helped identify prevalence rates and associations with demographic factors.

Results showed that a significant portion of participants consumed alcohol during pregnancy. Around 15% reported occasional use, and 5% reported frequent use. Age, education, socioeconomic status, and social influences emerged as factors associated with alcohol consumption. Younger women and those with lower education were more likely to consume alcohol. Also, women from lower-income households had higher consumption rates. Limited access to prenatal health education was also linked to alcohol use.

Social influences significantly shaped alcohol consumption. Many women reported drinking at family gatherings where alcohol was present. Peer influence also contributed, with social pressure from friends and family making abstention difficult. Additionally, some cultural beliefs promoted moderate alcohol use, affecting attitudes toward drinking during pregnancy.

A key finding showed that many pregnant women underestimated the risks of moderate drinking. Gaps in health education were evident, as some participants lacked specific knowledge on alcohol’s effects. Healthcare providers were not consistently discussing alcohol-related risks during antenatal visits. This inconsistency highlighted an area for improvement.

In conclusion, alcohol use during pregnancy is common in Molyko. Modifiable factors, such as health education and social influence, contribute to this behavior. Integrating targeted health education into antenatal care can be beneficial. Interventions should focus on reaching younger, less-educated, and lower-income women. Culturally sensitive approaches are also needed to address social norms around alcohol. Training healthcare providers to counsel women on alcohol risks during antenatal care is crucial.

Keywords: alcohol use, pregnancy, fetal alcohol syndrome, antenatal care, health education, Molyko, Buea, Cameroon