Grant: Doctoral Award - Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarships

While substantial research demonstrates the association between alcohol and injury, less is known about the role of alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AmED) in the risk of injury. Previous research investigating the combined use of alcohol and energy drinks has found that energy drink consumption is associated with heavy alcohol consumption and risky behaviors. The goal of the current study is to examine whether alcohol and energy drink consumption is associated with an increased risk for injury over and above alcohol consumption alone, as well as other stimulant use. Data will be collected from a sample of emergency department patients and an approximately equal number of injured and non-injured control subjects will be interviewed on each shift. A breathalyzer sample will be collected in addition to self-reported alcohol consumption to estimate blood alcohol levels. We will obtain data on the exact beverage line, brand, and amount of each energy drink consumed during the six hours prior to injury or first awareness of the medical condition, as well as consumption for one week prior to the emergency department visit. Finally, we examine gender differences and the context surrounding the injury. The results of the study are intended to add to the limited knowledge base on the role of AmED in the risk of injury. This knowledge can be used to inform the public on the potential harms associated with AmEd. Moreover, an increased understanding of risks for injury can lead us to develop interventions to prevent future injury.