Processos de alcoolização entre povos indígenas da América Latina

Abstract

For some indigenous peoples in Latin America, the use of alcoholic beverages predates the arrival of the colonizers. For others, interethnic contacts throughout history have profoundly altered the meanings and relationships with these substances. This article reviews updated literature on alcohol consumption by Latin American indigenous peoples, including the historical, social and health aspects associated with these issues. The results indicate that the early use of alcoholic beverages, the loss of identity references, changes in lifestyles, proximity to urban centres, migratory exodus, marginalization and social discrimination are risk factors for harmful alcohol consumption among indigenous peoples. There was also a lack of epidemiological research, which impairs the dimensioning of demands related to the harmful use of alcohol and hinder the planning and execution of health services.