Article

The aim of this study was to describe prevalence of alcohol misuse and
smoking among individuals with amputations as a result of peripheral arterial
disease before surgery and 12 mos after surgery, changes in these behaviors over
time, and factors associated with change. DESIGN: This is a prospective cohort
study of 75 veterans experiencing their first major unilateral amputation.
Measures included demographic and general health information, Alcohol Use
Disorders Identification Test, smoking behaviors, and social support. RESULTS:
Sixteen percent of the participants reported engaging in alcohol misuse at
presurgical baseline; and 13% at 12 mos after amputation. Thirty-seven percent of
the participants were categorized as smokers at baseline; this number dropped to
29% at 12 mos after amputation. Among those who decreased drinking and quit
smoking, there was a trend indicating greater social support. CONCLUSIONS: The
participants endorsed drinking and smoking behaviors at levels consistent with
other types of disability and with veterans using the Veterans Health
Administration for their health care. Even with a variety of health concerns,
after amputation, most of the smokers and those engaging in alcohol misuse
continued to smoke and drink at their preamputation rate. The presence of social
support may encourage health behavior change and is an important area for future
research and intervention.

Langue : ANGLAIS