[Relationship between family perception and alcohol consumption]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Family Medicine

Background:

• Alcohol consumption and dependence are significant public health concerns.
• Understanding the relationship between alcohol use and family dynamics is crucial for effective interventions.
• Previous research indicates potential links between substance abuse and family dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption and dependence in an urban health service user population.
• To investigate the association between alcohol consumption, alcohol dependence, and perceived family function.
• To explore the utility of the CAGE and APGAR questionnaires in assessing these relationships.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, crossover study was conducted involving 434 health service users in an urban area.
• Data collection included demographic information, alcohol consumption assessment, and the CAGE and APGAR questionnaires.
• Statistical analysis was performed to examine the relationships between variables.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of alcohol consumption (77%) and excessive consumption (22.9%) was observed.
• Excessive alcohol consumption was more common among men and active agrarian workers.
• While general alcohol consumption did not significantly correlate with family dysfunction, the CAGE questionnaire results showed a significant association with family dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• High rates of alcohol consumption do not typically lead to significant changes in family dynamics.
• Family dysfunction is significantly associated with alcohol dependence syndrome, as indicated by CAGE scores.
• Early screening for alcohol problems using tools like the CAGE questionnaire may help identify individuals at risk for family dysfunction.