Public awareness on the benefits of moderate wine consumption amongst Maltese adults

Abstract

Literature shows that moderate wine consumption has positive effects on health. However, there is a lot of controversy surrounding whether it is the non-alcoholic components found in wine or the alcohol content that makes moderate wine consumption beneficial for one's health. Despite the fact that literature on the benefits of moderate wine consumption is vast, very little literature was found on the beliefs of moderate wine consumption amongst the general population. The aim of this study is to explore self reported behaviours and beliefs regarding moderate wine consumption amongst Maltese adults. For the purpose of this study, a descriptive yet quantitative methodology was used. The tool used to conduct this study was a self-administered questionnaire developed by the researcher herself. Participants were all Maltese individuals aged 18 years or over. Questionnaires were given out at the city gates of Valletta. Forty nine questionnaires were returned by post, making up a response rate of 49%. Questionnaires addressed demographic data, knowledge about the safe amount of wine to drink, and perceptions about the influence of moderate wine consumption on health. Findings about participants' knowledge on the safe amount of wine to drink were in most occasions, in line with recommendations given by the American Heart association and the U.S Department of Agriculture/US. Department of Health and Human Services (2005). Almost all the respondents believed that wine, consumed in moderation, is good for health particularly, the cardiovascular system. However, they seemed unaware that such a benefit is derived from the effects of wine on blood cholesterol. Most respondents referred to the media as being their source of information. When referring to the amount of wine drank weekly, the majority of respondents claimed to drink moderate amounts throughout this time period. However, they reported drinking wine mostly on week ends, thus referring to the possibility that some of the respondents may binge at the end of the week. At the end some recommendations were made including conducting a large scale study to investigate better this subject area. Alternatively a qualitative study on perceptions and drinking patterns could be conducted in order to see if respondents are binge drinking on the weekends. More research could also be done to see if it is ethical for health professionals to advise their patients to drink wine moderately. Further education should be invested in for individuals to know why wine is beneficial for the cardiovascular system.