Quality of life and disability in males with alcohol dependence syndrome

The aim is to study the quality of life (QoL) and disability in persons with alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS).

This cross-sectional, analytical, case-control study in a tertiary hospital in a suburb of Maharashtra included 100 cases of ADS and equal number of age- and sex-matched healthy controls fulfilling the various inclusion and exclusion criteria.

The study revealed that individuals commonly initiate drinking alcohol between 20 and 30 years and first present to the hospital for seeking medical attention in the age group of 30-40 years after 10-12 years of drinking when they are moderately or severely dependent on alcohol. Alcohol dependence is associated with lower educational levels and lower levels of employment. Many have problems in their marital and intimate relations, making it difficult for them to stay in long-term relationships. As a consequence of their frequent aggressive and violent behaviors, they are more commonly involved in legal matters. Having a positive family history of alcohol dependence and familial psychiatric disorders makes them have a higher chance of developing alcohol dependence. As the number of years of drinking increases, so does the dependency level.

Alcohol dependence is associated with lower QoL and higher levels of disability levels. The severity of alcohol dependence is inversely proportional to the QoL experienced by them and directly proportional to their disabilities.