Efficacy of interventions targeting alcohol, drug and smoking behaviors in university and college students: A review of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions targeting alcohol consumption, drug use and smoking for college/university students. PARTICIPANTS: College/University students. METHODS: Studies were eligible if: (1)included students attending universities/colleges; (2)implemented in a university/college setting; (3)aimed to improve at least one of the following behaviors: alcohol and/or drug use and/or smoking; (4)were RCTs. The effect of the interventions on behaviors was determined by the percentage of studies that reported an effect. Due to the heterogeneity of outcomes meta-analysis was not conducted. RESULTS: 88 studies met criteria. University-based interventions were effective for reducing alcohol-related outcomes (drinking patterns, BAC, consequences, problem drinking). Inconsistent findings for drug and smoking were observed. CONCLUSIONS: University-based interventions have the potential to improve health for students. While there is a breadth of research examining the efficacy of interventions to reduce alcohol consumption, further research is needed to determine the best approach for addressing smoking and drug use among students.