Alcohol Consumption Among Myanmar Migrants in Thailand

Millions of Myanmar migrants are residing in Thailand where they encounter daily challenges and problems. Drinking alcohol is a way to cope with these stressful situations and thus, alcohol abuse is very common among them. This study aimed to find out factors contributing to alcohol use among Myanmar migrants in Thailand and impact of alcohol consumption on their health. A systematic literature review, based on conceptual framework was conducted through thematic content analysis of thirty relevant documents to explore the factors. Underage drinking, migration-related factors, stress and easy access to alcohol were of great concern regarding alcohol use. Health problems such as liver and heart diseases, cancer and HIV/AIDS as well as domestic violence were associated with alcohol consumption. More studies with better design are required to provide validity. To create a better atmosphere for migrants to minimize stressful conditions, support from different organizations, local community and authorities is necessary. As undocumented migrants are hard-to-reach population, solutions to tackle problems of illegal migrants such as an outreach approach to register them would be needed.