Publication

Abstract :

Background: There is limited published literature on the impact of alcohol use among alcohol dependents and their family members.

Objectives: To find the factors associated with alcohol use and explore the impact of alcohol use on alcohol dependents and their family members.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 316 men aged above 18 years, and four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among alcohol dependents and their family members. A validated semi-structured questionnaire was used.

Results: The mean (SD) age of the study participants was 45.2 (15.1) years, and 276 of them (87.3%) were educated. The prevalence of alcohol use was found to be 38% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 32.8-43.4]. Older age [adjusted prevalence (APR) = 2.23 (95% CI = 1.17-4.27)], no formal education [APR = 1.20 (95% CI = 1.20-1.20)], rural residence [APR = 1.05 (95% CI = 1.05-1.05)], self-reported comorbidities [APR = 1.21 (95% CI = 1.21-1.21)], tobacco use [APR = 2.42 (95% CI = 1.98-2.97)] and individuals having a family history of alcohol use [APR = 2.42 (95% CI = 1.73-3.37)] were the factors associated with alcohol use. The family members of alcohol users suffer mainly mental, emotional and physical abuse. Abusive language used by the alcoholic father and family break-ups have an influence on children and in their schooling.

Conclusions: Prevalence of alcohol use in a low alcohol taxed region in India was high. The family members of alcohol users mainly suffer mental, emotional and physical abuse.