How alcohol use affects COVID-19 in adolescents

Understanding how alcohol use affects adolescent COVID-19 acquisition and disease course overtime

NIH-funded research Center for Innovative Public Health Research · NIH-10689854

This study looks at how drinking alcohol might affect COVID-19 infection rates in teens aged 14-17, especially focusing on how it could weaken their immune systems and change their social behaviors, while also exploring how the pandemic has changed drinking habits among young people, particularly those from marginalized communities, to help improve support and treatment for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCenter for Innovative Public Health Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Clemente, United States)
Project IDNIH-10689854 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between alcohol consumption and COVID-19 infection rates among adolescents aged 14-17. It aims to understand how alcohol use may weaken the immune system and influence social behaviors that increase the risk of virus transmission. The study also explores how the COVID-19 pandemic has altered alcohol consumption patterns in youth, particularly among marginalized groups. By examining these factors, the research seeks to inform treatment and support strategies for affected adolescents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 14-17 who consume alcohol and may be at risk for COVID-19.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 14-17 or those who do not consume alcohol may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health interventions and support systems for adolescents at risk of COVID-19 due to alcohol use.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific intersection of alcohol use and COVID-19 in adolescents is relatively novel, previous research has shown that alcohol consumption can negatively impact immune response and health outcomes.

Where this research is happening

San Clemente, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.