Alcohol use by university students of South Brazil and its changes during the early COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Alcohol is the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance worldwide, with university students representing a subgroup characterized by elevated consumption rates. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant behavioral shifts across the general population, with students particularly vulnerable to its psychosocial impacts. In this context, the present study aimed to assess alcohol consumption patterns among university students and to examine the influence of the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic on these behaviors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between July and November 2020 using an online questionnaire. The instrument collected data on students’ lifestyle habits, health status, and substance use, both prior to and during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: A total of 1,553 valid responses were analyzed, of which 99.93% reported alcohol consumption. The most frequently reported pattern of use was weekly consumption. During the pandemic, 248 students indicated an increase in their alcohol intake. Students who perceived a decline in their overall health status during the early pandemic period were less likely to report increased alcohol consumption, whereas those with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis demonstrated a higher likelihood of increased use. Conclusion: The findings reveal a high prevalence of alcohol consumption among university students and suggest that periods marked by abrupt behavioral and routine changes, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may significantly influence substance use patterns within this population.