ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all spheres of life worldwide.
Besides health, the social and economic consequences
of COVID-19 altered patterns of alcohol consumption
warrants further elucidation. This commentary addresses
the implications of COVID-19 on alcohol use and alcohol
education. Alcohol drinking is a modifiable risk factor that
increases the susceptibility and adverse consequences in
COVID-19 patients. There is a bidirectional relationship
between COVID-19 and alcohol-related problems. Alcohol
use, especially heavy drinking, lowers the body’s immunity
to fight infections. One of the effects of COVID-19 has been
on the enforcement of lockdowns as part of community-wide
quarantine. There are differing reports about the impact
of lockdowns on alcohol use. In the short term, generally
decreased use and the manifestation of withdrawal symptoms
in those suffering from alcohol use disorder have been
noted. In the long term, due to distress and negative psychological
sequelae associated with isolation, increased use is
reported. Also, the myth of the preventive role of consuming
alcohol in COVID-19 has resulted in adverse consequences
including deaths in many parts of the world. This commentary
advocates for the implementation of theory-based educational
programs at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels
to reduce alcohol use in the COVID-19 era.
Keywords: COVID-19, alcohol, alcohol use disorder, health
behavior, health education