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. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 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.