Alcohol and Tobacco Use in Healthcare Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Alcohol is a psychoactive substance with dependence-producing properties that has been widely used across cultures. Harmful alcohol consumption contributes significantly to global morbidity and mortality and is associated with more than 200 disease conditions, including mental and behavioral disorders, liver cirrhosis, cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and injuries. Young adults, particularly students, represent a vulnerable group due to increasing exposure to behavioral and social risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Allied Health Sciences students in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India, from January to March 2026. The study included undergraduate and postgraduate students from first year to internship across four Allied Health Sciences colleges. Out of approximately 500 eligible students, 369 participated, yielding a response rate of 73.8%. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested, self-administered, anonymous questionnaire assessing substance use patterns. Results: The mean age of participants was 20.59 ± 1.75 years, with 138 (37.40%) males and 231 (62.60%) females. The prevalence of smoking was 10.03% (n = 37), while alcohol consumption was reported by 15.45% (n = 57) of students. Additionally, 5.96% (n = 22) of participants reported the use of all three substances. Substance use was more common among older students and those in advanced academic years. The findings indicate a notable proportion of Allied Health Sciences students engaging in unhealthy practices such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Conclusion: The study highlights a concerning prevalence of substance use among Allied Health Sciences students. Targeted interventions focusing on awareness, behavioral change, and institutional support systems are essential to reduce substance use and promote healthier lifestyles among future healthcare professionals.