Neighborhood education inequality and drinking behavior

Publication year: 2010
Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 11 June 2010

Félice, Lê , Jennifer, Ahern , Sandro, Galea

 Background: The neighborhood distribution of education (education inequality) may influence substance use among neighborhood residents. Methods: Using data from the New York Social Environment Study (conducted in 2005; n=4000), we examined the associations of neighborhood education inequality (measured using Gini coefficients of education) with alcohol use prevalence and levels of alcohol consumption among alcohol users. Analyses were adjusted for neighborhood education level, income level and income inequality, as well as for individual demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and history of drinking prior to residence in the current neighborhood. Neighborhood social norms about drinking were examined as a possible mediator. Results: In adjusted generalized estimating equation regression…