Study: Spanish-language counseling reducing heavy drinking in Latino adults 

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A new study led by the University of California, San Diego found that Spanish-language counseling is reducing heavy alcohol usage in Latino adults by 22%. 

One in four Latino adults reported binge drinking in the last month, this is a 23% higher rate than other ethnic groups, according to UCSD. Research said they are trying to address this gap.  

UCSD collaborated with Providence Health and Services in Los Angeles County to conduct the study. Of 236 Latino adults, some received what researchers call a “culturally adapted” treatment program and others received the standard program. 

After 26 weeks, those in the culturally adapted program reduced drinking by 22% where the other group reduced by 13%. 

“Our findings highlight the importance of meeting people where they are — both linguistically and culturally,” Lead Author and UCSD Professor Dr. Alison A. Moore said. 

“By working through trusted community health workers, we were able to create a bridge between evidence-based behavioral strategies and the real-world experiences of Latinx adults, who are too often underserved by traditional treatment systems,” Moore added. 

Researchers suggest that a possible response to alcohol abuse in Latino adults could be to dismantle standard “Rethinking Drinking” booklets and offer more personalized support.  

Director of Alcohol Studies Dr. Mitchell Karno at the University of California, Los Angeles, said that this research suggests a health workers’ connection to a community makes a significant impact when providing support and treatment.  

Researchers believe that these findings may also help address other health disparities.  

Moore said the goal of their research is just about abstinence, but rather helping people reach their goals, with their values also in mind. 

“When we do that in a way that honors their culture and language, we not only improve individual health, but also strengthen entire communities,” Moore said.