Health indicators and risks among people experiencing homelessness in Melbourne, 1995-1996

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Homeless populations face significant health challenges.
• Understanding the health status and risk behaviors of homeless individuals is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the health status and risk behaviors of homeless individuals in Melbourne.
• To identify specific health issues and behaviors prevalent in this population.

Main Methods:

• Stratified, systematic sampling of 284 homeless individuals from accommodation sites.
• Convenience sampling of 100 homeless individuals from squats and streets.
• Surveys, Mantoux testing, blood tests (gamma-interferon assay, liver/renal function), and questionnaires.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of medical conditions (72%) and recent symptoms (77%).
• Common conditions include bronchitis, asthma, and gastroenteritis; common symptoms include persistent cough and shortness of breath.
• Significant rates of smoking (77%), current drinking (74%), past injecting drug use (28%), and regular injecting drug use (14%).
• Mental illness reported by 44%, including depression (49%) and schizophrenia (15%).
• 21% had positive Mantoux reactions (≥15 mm), indicating potential Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) infection.
• Street-recruited participants showed poorer health and higher risk behaviors than those from accommodation sites.

Conclusions:

• Homeless individuals in Melbourne experience a poor health status with high-risk behaviors.
• Respiratory and gastro-intestinal issues, smoking, injecting drug use, and potential MTb infection are major health concerns.
• Street-homeless individuals face greater health risks and engage in more detrimental behaviors compared to those in accommodation.