Prevalence and Risk of Alcohol Use among Palliative Care Patients in Kenya

: Case Study of Coast Region

Abstract

Alcoholism is a health concern in the general public, which is likely to affect special populations including those in palliative care settings. Alcohol use among Persons Living with Palliative Care Needs (PLWPCNs) can pose a major challenge in pain and symptom management. However, the frequency of alcohol use in this population is under-recognized and has not been adequately addressed in Kenya. The study aims to assess the risk factors and frequency of alcohol consumption among PLWPCNs; as well as determine the effects of alcohol use among patients and families in outpatient palliative care settings in Kenya. Information of 150 patients referred to the outpatient hospice facility in the Coast region of Kenya was retrospectively reviewed. Additionally, an interview schedule was administered to the hospice care providers to determine the prevalence and risk factors of alcohol use among the patients. The results indicated that the majority of the participants were using alcohol. The study recommends appropriate assessment for risk of current or past alcoholism as well as the use of comprehensive interventions to improve the quality of life of these patients and their families