Proximal predictors of breath alcohol level at venues primarily serving sexual minority patrons

The purpose of this paper is to assess the proximal predictors of breath alcohol content (BrAC) at exit of a venue that primarily served sexual minority patrons. Contrary to prior research that relies on self-report of alcohol consumption, participants’ BrAC level was measured prior to entering the venue and again at exit.

A portal method was used to assess individuals before and after attending a sexual minority bar. Participants (n=96) were randomly selected for participation on weekends from four bars.

A multivariate path model was conducted to predict BrAC at exit from the bar. Individuals who drank before coming to the bar had a mean BrAC of 0.093 (SD=0.065) at exit from the bar and those who did not drink before attending the bar had a mean BrAC 0.030 (SD=0.050) at exit (t=5.47 (99), p<0.001). Drinking before bar attendance, BrAC at entrance, planning to drive, and drinking intentions were significant predictors of BrAC at exit from the bar. There were no significant variations in BrAC by sexual identity.

BrAC levels at exit were mainly influenced by the BrAC levels at entrance and were not significantly changed while at the venue.

While previous research has demonstrated a higher incidence of problematic drinking behaviors in nonheterosexual populations, the current study suggests that bars and clubs who serve sexual minority patrons might not be adding to these problematic behaviors, and instead serve as a place of community for LGB individuals.