Alcohol use disorder and associated factors among individuals with severe mental illnesses in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Mulualem Kelebie, Getasew Kibralew, Gebresilassie Tadesse et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis assessed alcohol use disorder (AUD) prevalence and associated factors among people with severe mental illness in Africa. It included 20 primary studies with 7,540 participants. The pooled AUD prevalence was 33.26% (95% CI: 26.41-40.12). AUD was significantly associated with male sex, younger age, current cigarette use, and a family history of alcohol use. The findings indicate a substantial burden of AUD in this population, although the reported associations do not establish that these factors cause AUD.
Key findings
- Pooled AUD prevalence among people with severe mental illness in Africa was 33.26% (95% CI: 26.41-40.12).
- Male sex was associated with AUD (OR = 3.45; 95% CI: 2.13-5.59).
- Younger age, current cigarette use, and family history of alcohol use were associated with AUD (OR = 3.12, 4.80, and 3.25, respectively).
Why it matters
The pooled estimate suggests AUD is common among people with severe mental illness in the African studies reviewed. The associated factors may help services identify groups in whom assessment for alcohol-related problems is particularly relevant. Recognising co-occurring AUD is important because it adds to the clinical burden in a population already living with serious mental illness.
What to keep in mind
The review reports substantial heterogeneity among included studies and used a random-effects model. The associated factors are observational associations and cannot establish causation.