Gender Differences in Drinking Behavior: An Analysis of a Major Cause of the Mortality Crisis in Contemporary Russia

Yuka Minagawa, University of Texas at Austin

Objective: Heavy alcohol use is the major cause of premature male mortality in contemporary Russia. This study examines gender differences in drinking behavior among Russians, focusing on how drinking patterns differ in terms of beverage type choice and volume. Methods: Results are based on multinomial logistic regression and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analyses of the Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey (RLSM) data. Results: Men and women in Russia have significantly different preferences for alcoholic beverages. Men have strong preferences for hard liquor, namely vodka, and they drink it in much larger amounts in comparison with women. Women are more likely to either refrain from drinking or drink mild types of alcoholic beverages, such as wine and beer. Conclusion: It is not alcohol use per se that is most important for understanding health and mortality among Russians, but differences in beverage types that are consumed by men and women respectively.