A regionally specific drinking custom 'Otōri' and its association with alcohol consumption/alcohol use disorders: a cross-sectional study.

Social obligation generated by some community members could pressure most of the population into participating in Otōri, possibly leading to a higher percentage of people engaging in hazardous/harmful alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence. However, healthcare professionals should carefully consider the beneficial and detrimental effects of the custom on biomedical and social conditions and avoid advocating to promote or abolish the custom by only highlighting one aspect.