IMPACT OF ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE ON QUALITY OF LIFE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY abstract

Background: Alcohol dependence significantly impacts an individual’s physical, psychological, and social well-being. Understanding the quality of life (QoL) of individuals with alcohol dependence and its relationship with socio-demographic and clinical variables is crucial for effective interventions. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) in individuals with alcohol dependence, compare it with normal controls, and examine its relationship with selected socio-demographic variables. Methods and Materials: A total of 200 participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique, comprising 100 individuals diagnosed with alcohol dependence (as per ICD-10 DCR criteria) and 100 normal controls matched on socio demographic characteristics. The normal control group was screened using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and those scoring e”3 were excluded. Participants were assessed using a socio-demographic datasheet and the WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: No significant differences were observed between the two groups in socio-demographic variables, ensuring methodological rigor. However, individuals with alcohol dependence reported significantly lower QoL scores across all domains—Physical Health, Psychological Health, Social Relationships, and Environment—compared to normal controls (p < .001). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between age, duration of alcohol use, and all QoL domains, indicating that prolonged alcohol consumption and aging are associated with a decline in quality of life. Conclusion: The findings highlight the detrimental impact of alcohol dependence on various aspects of quality of life. Prolonged alcohol use exacerbates these effects, emphasizing the need for early intervention and psychosocial support.