Alcohol and drinking cultures in Vietnam: A review.

Background: Epidemiological data suggest that national levels of alcohol consumption have increased rapidly in contemporary Vietnam; concomitantly, social and public health harms associated with alcohol use are on the rise.

Methods: Over the last decade, a research literature on alcohol use in Vietnam has begun to develop.

Results: A consideration of this literature indicates lines of analysis to be extended and gaps to be filled.

Conclusion: This synopsis provides an overview of the major trends that studies have addressed, evaluates the state of research to date, and suggests avenues for further research on alcohol use in this newly middle-income nation.