Factors influencing Relapse among Alcohol Dependence Syndrome Patients-A Cross-Sectional Study at Spandana Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Bangalore, Karnataka

Abstract

Background of the study: Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) is a chronic condition with a high tendency for relapse, influenced by various psychological, social, and environmental factors. Understanding these factors is essential for effective relapse prevention and long-term recovery. Therefore, this study focuses on identifying the key determinants contributing to relapse among ADS patients. Aim: To assess the Factors influencing relapse among alcohol dependence syndrome patients. Methodology: The factors influencing relapse were assessed using the Alcohol Relapse Risk Scale in a cross-sectional survey conducted at Spandana Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Bangalore. A total of 100 participants were selected through convenience sampling. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: The results indicate that the majority of respondents (56.0%) were aged 20–40 years and married (56.0%). Most participants were graduates or above (23.0%), employed in the private sector (35.0%), belonged to the Hindu religion (71.0%), and resided in urban areas (65.0%). A higher proportion came from nuclear families (61.0%) and were below the poverty line (66.0%). The age at onset of alcoholism was predominantly between 15–25 years (66.0%). Family history of alcoholism was present in 38.0% of respondents, while 53.0% had a history of previous hospitalization for alcohol dependence. Duration of alcohol use exceeded 4 years in 42.0% of cases, and 57.0% reported a last abstinence period of less than 3 years. A large majority (90.0%) experienced life stressors, 53.0% reported peer pressure, and 55.0% perceived limited social support contributing to relapse. The majority of respondents (66.0%) were at high risk for relapse, while 34.0% were at moderate risk. A higher risk for relapse was most commonly associated with Compulsivity for Alcohol (CA) (71.0%), followed by Emotional Problems (EP) (70.0%), Stimulus-Induced Vulnerability (SV) (67.0%), and Lack of Negative Expectancy for Alcohol (NE) (62.0%). Additionally, equal proportions of respondents (60.0%) were observed for Positive Expectancy for Alcohol (PE) and Insight into Condition (IC). A statistically significant positive correlation was foundbetweenthe factors influencing relapse and selected sociodemographic variable such asAge(χ 2 =4.59, P<0.05), area of residence (χ 2 =4.70*, P<0.05)and economic status (χ 2 =3.92*, P<0.05). A significant association was documentedbetween the factors influencing relapse andclinical factorssuch asAge of onset of Alcoholism (χ 2 =3.92*, P<0.05), history of previous hospitalization for treatment for alcohol dependency (χ 2 =4.44*, P<0.05), peer pressure (χ 2 =4.44*, P<0.05) and the perceived social support on relapse (χ 2 =5.06*, P<0.05).