Citation

Thaikla K. Alcohol Alcohol. 2014; 49 Suppl 1: i53.

Affiliation

Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Thailand.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/alcalc/agu054.2

PMID

25221233

Abstract

The study on the production, distribution, and consumption of untaxed alcoholic beverages in Phayao province was a pilot study conducted in 3 districts, 7 sub-districts, 51 villages, 142 shops and 32 community distilleries, as well as 15 patients receiving treatment, using in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and individual interviews, in September 2013. Data analyses showed that more than 97 percents of local stores sold legal alcoholic beverages (with excise stamp), contrary to community distilleries in which more than 93% were avoiding taxation. Approximately 31.4% of the distilleries produced alcohol on a monthly basis. Reasons for not selling with excise stamp included a higher profit margin, as well as the preference of the locals to purchase locally-distilled alcohol directly from the distillery due to the low price and higher volume and strength of the alcohol. Alcohol consumption among the people of Phayao was based on the belief in the ability to nourish the body and creating a relaxed feeling after an entire day of work. Locally-distilled alcohol is popularly consumed during festivals or important celebrations in the community, as well as customary thanks-giving treats. With regard to contamination with pesticides, 20 samples were submitted for ethanol and methanol contents as well as pesticide contamination. Three samples were shown to be contaminated, which resulted in a reduced level of enzymatic activity and excessive inhibition of choline-esterase enzyme. Among patients receiving treatment for alcoholism at Thanyarak Hospital, Chiang Mai Province, during 2-19 September 2013, 15 patients were addicted to alcohol and more than 97% had consumed alcohol within 7 days prior to receiving treatment. Common presentation for admission included hitting the house's wall, pain in the neck muscles, hand tremors due to withdrawal from drinking, uncontrollable desire to drink, and liver disease.

Language: en