Asians, Asian-Americans and Alcohol

Abstract

Abstract-Thc association of flushing (vasodilation, reddening of the skin) with the alcohol use of Asians and Asian-Americans is examined. Historical changes in alcohol use, recent secular changes in alcohol use, and marked differences in consumption among Asian populations and among Asian-Americans of the same national origins, as well as the lack of reduction of sex differences among flushers, indicate that flushing has little influence on alcohol consumption. Social, psychological, and cultural influences seem to be more adequate explanatory devices with regard to Oriental alcohol use.

Asians in the United States: substance dependence and use of substance-dependence treatment

“…This finding is consistent with studies that show subgroups of Asians benefit from both protective genes for alcohol consumption and dependence (Chen et al, 1999;Higuchi et al, 1994;Higuchi, Muramatsu, Matsushita, Murayama, & Hayashida, 1996;Li, Yin, Crabb, O'Connor, & Ramchandani, 2001;Tu & Israel, 1995 ;Wall, Shea, Chan, & Carr, 2001) and lower risk environments (Catalano et al, 1992;Collins, Ellickson, & Bell, 1998;Johnson & Nagoshi, 1990;Keefe & Newcomb, 1996).…”

Protective Strategies and Alcohol Use Among College Students: Ethnic and Gender Differences

“…Although the majority of research surrounding alcohol use and minority populations focuses on African Americans and Hispanic Americans, research has indicated that the drinking rate of Asian Americans conforms to those of European Americans as assimilation occurs (Johnson & Nagoshi, 1990). Similar patterns were found among Italians and Cubans.…”

“…Assimilation of both gender minorities and ethnic minorities often results in the minorities taking on the characteristics of the majority group (Johnson & Nagoshi, 1990). This appears to have already happened in the area of gender.…”

Sexual Activity and Other Risk-Taking Behaviors among Asian-American Adolescents

“…27e29 However, other studies, including a recent one of Chinese and KoreanAmericans in their first year of college, failed to show this association. 30,31 Japanese-and Filipino-Americans have the highest alcohol use rates, similar to those of non-Hispanic whites. 39 In addition, Asian-Americans who do drink are likely to be heavy drinkers.…”