Researchers, led by Dr. David E. Pollio of Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., compared data from three studies of homeless men and women in St. Louis conducted in 1980, 1990 and 2000. They found significant increases in rates of alcoholism and other drug use among homeless people today compared to 20 years ago. In addition, there were increases in major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

According to the study, drug use among homeless men and women increased six-fold over the 20-year period, with nearly 60 percent of homeless people being diagnosed with drug addiction at some point in their lives.

Among homeless women, the rate of alcoholism nearly doubled over the 20-year period, with about 40 percent being diagnosed with an alcohol problem in 2000. Alcoholism rates remained unchanged among homeless men.

"The findings support the need for increasing opportunities and access for mental illness and substance-abuse treatment for homeless populations," the researchers concluded.

Pollio added, "Services need to be focused in on the changing nature of the homeless population. It is becoming increasingly about addiction, mental illness, and multiple diagnoses."

The study's findings were released last week during the annual meeting of the American Public Health Association.

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