Family environmental factors associated with underage drinking.

Background: Alcohol-related health and social problems amongst underage are increasing globally. Most studies have focused on the quality of parental relationships. However, less evidence is available to support the association between alcohol consumption and the birth order or the interaction between siblings. The objective of this study was to analyze the association between underage alcohol consumption and family structure and family relationships. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among schoolchildren in Murcia Region (Southern Spain) (n = 2290) using an anonymous questionnaire delivered in school settings. Statistical analyses used logistic regression to identify independent predictors of alcohol use. Separate analyses were carried out by sexes. Results: About one-third of the 2290 surveyed students (33.2%) reported alcohol consumption, being significantly higher in boys than girls (35.4% vs. 31.3%, p = 0.041). In general, attending second to fourth course of secondary education (grades 7-10 in North America), being a second child, mother with low educational level or working outside home, and having a bad relationship with parents or siblings were associated with higher risk of alcohol consumption. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the complexity of family interactions, including order or birth and quality of relationship with parents and siblings, may impact alcohol consumption in underage population. However, further studies are warranted to confirm and extend our finding, particularly about the order of siblings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]