The accuracy and promise of personal breathalysers for research: Steps toward a cost-effective reliable measure of alcohol intoxication?

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Technology is continuing to shape the way we collect health data, including data on alcohol use. A number of technologies are being developed to objectively measure intoxication 'in the wild' without relying on self-report; the most immediate solution may be the use of personal breathalysers. In this study, we aimed to determine whether a cost-effective personal breathalyser would perform in a similar manner to a device used for roadside breath testing.

Method

We intercepted young adults (n = 337; 45% men) outside three concerts, administered 5-min interviews, and asked for breath samples on two devices (a personal breathalyser and a police-grade breathalyser).

Results

Participants reported having consumed an average of 7.3 standard drinks before the

SUBMITTER: Riordan BC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6001255 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature