Burden of alcohol use in the Uganda police in Kampala district

Background: Alcohol dependence is one of the leading causes of the global burden of disease. Among members of the Uganda Police Force, alcohol dependence has been a major contributor of poor mental health, poor work output and forced retirement. Objective: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of alcohol dependence and associated psychosocial problems in the Uganda Police Force in Kampala District. Methods of Study: A sample of police officers selected by systematic sampling strategy from two large barracks in Kampala District participated. A semi-structured questionnaire designed to elicit information on the perceived impact of alcohol use was used. Prevalence rate was derived from ICD-10 criteria for alcohol dependence, and psychosocial problems in alcohol dependence. Results: Twenty respondents (19.2%) met criteria for alcohol use disorder, 26.0% met criteria for alcohol use problems and 9.6% reported that their health was poor. Alcohol use disorder or problems were significantly associated with lack of job satisfaction, poor health, problems in implementing personal plans, disciplinary problems, inability to save from personal earnings, debts, and absenteeism from work. Conclusion: One in five police officers met criteria for alcohol use disorder while one in four experienced psychosocial problems related to alcohol use. The results suggest serious implications for the quality of services provided by the Uganda Police. There is a need to establish measures to provide services for those affected, and a further need to establish preventative measures against alcohol dependence in the police force. African Health Sciences Vol. 6(1) 2006: 14-2