Arch Psychiatr Nurs. 2026 Aug;63:152182. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2026.152182. Epub 2026 Jul 13.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Hazardous alcohol use (HAU) is common among men in low- and middle-income countries and contributes substantial harm. This study evaluated a culturally adapted group intervention combining protective behavioral strategies (PBS), brief intervention, and skills training to reduce alcohol use among rural Vietnamese men.
METHODS: In a two-arm randomized controlled trial in Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam, 104 men aged 35-44 with HAU (AUDIT 8-15) were randomized to a five-session group intervention (n = 52) or usual care (n = 52). Weekly alcohol consumption and drinking frequency were measured at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months; alcohol-related problems and intention to drink were measured at baseline and 3 months. Analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle using linear mixed-effects models and generalized estimating equations with sensitivity analyses.
RESULTS: Follow-up at 3 months was 94.2% (98/104 participants). Weekly alcohol consumption decreased significantly more in the intervention group than in the control group (Group × Time interaction: β = -23.26, 95% CI: -38.10 to -8.50, p = .002). No significant intervention effects were observed for drinking frequency (β = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.27 to 0.10, p = .368) or alcohol-related problems (β = 1.31, 95% CI: -1.33 to 3.95, p = .327). The intervention reduced odds of higher intention-to-drink scores over time (OR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75-0.92, p < .001). Sensitivity analyses were consistent.
CONCLUSION: The culturally adapted PBS-based group intervention reduced alcohol consumption and intention to drink among middle-aged rural Vietnamese men with HAU. Trials with attention-matched controls are needed.
PMID:42608108 | DOI:10.1016/j.apnu.2026.152182
