Prevalence of alcohol related brain damage among homeless hostel dwellers in Glasgow.
BACKGROUND
Over half of Glasgow's 4000 homeless people drink hazardously but the prevalence of alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) has not been described.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the prevalence of ARBD among homeless hostel dwellers in Glasgow.


METHODS
A representative sample of homeless hostel dwellers was surveyed using validated survey instruments and clinical assessment.


RESULTS
From a sample of 266 hostel dwellers, 82% had cognitive impairment and 78% were drinking hazardously. The prevalence of ARBD among homeless hostel dwellers was 21%.


CONCLUSIONS
ARBD has a high prevalence among homeless hostel dwellers and treatment is usually effective. There is a need to actively identify and treat this population to help them move out of homelessness.
Gilchrist
Gail
G
Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
Morrison
David S
DS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000425:Alcohol Amnestic Disorder; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000150:complications*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006703:Ill-Housed Persons; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012606:Scotland