Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

___________________________________________

Monday, February 1, 2010

Determinants of Early Reductions in Drinking in Older At-Risk Drinkers Participating in the Intervention Arm of a Trial to Reduce At-Risk Drinking in


To describe differences between older at-risk drinkers, as determined using the Comorbidity Alcohol Risk Evaluation Tool, who reduced drinking and those who did not after an initial intervention and to determine factors associated with early reductions in drinking.

Thirty-nine percent of the sample had reduced drinking within 2 weeks of receiving the initial intervention. According to the final multiple logistic regression model, those who were concerned about alcohol-related risks , read through the educational booklet , or perceived that their physicians discussed risks and advised changing drinking behaviors had greater odds of reducing drinking by the first health educator call.

Concern about risks, reading educational material, and perception of physicians providing advice to reduce drinking were associated with early reductions in alcohol use in older at-risk drinkers. Understanding these factors will enable development of better intervention strategies to reduce unhealthy alcohol use.

Read Full Abstract

Request Reprint E-Mail: jlin1207@ucla.edu

___________________________________