Outcome of Alcohol Dependence Syndrome Cases Managed in Armed Forces

Army Order for Alcohol Dependence Syndrome gives a structured and strict approach towards disposal of such cases in Indian Armed Forces. Four years have passed since the implementation of the above order. This study was conducted to assess the outcome after implementation of the said order.

231 male soldiers reporting for review after six months and one year of initial treatment were included in the study. Data was obtained from history, physical examination, mental state, laboratory and other investigations. The data was analyzed and compared with previous study.

231 patients were reviewed in this period of four years, of which 149 patients were reviewed after six months and 77 after one year. Five patients were reviewed beyond one year. 50 - 53% patients have shown complete improvement after the initial treatment and 23.5 - 31% have shown partial improvement after the initial treatment. The rest did not show much improvement. The results are better than the previous results from study conducted before implementation of the new Army Order.

The study strengthens the validity of the present Army Order, which is structured and may be having a deterrent value, leading to better prognosis.