Alcohol-dependent individuals sixteen years on

Abstract

Fifty-seven married individuals were followed up 16 years after treatment for alcohol dependence in 1965. The tracing located 96% of subjects. At interview an assessment of past alcohol-related problems between 1965 and 1981, and of recent possible alcohol dependence was made. No current psychiatric morbidity was found in 54% of interviewees. Fewer alcohol-related problems between 1965 and 1981 were experienced by older individuals and those of higher social class. Subjects classified as problem drinkers (non-alcohol-dependent individuals with significant alcohol-related problems) by 1981 had experienced more alcohol-related accidents during follow-up than those of other outcome groups. Individuals classified as bout drinkers in 1965 had the poorest 1981 outcomes. Outcome classification and results involved 14.5% abstinent, 20% controlled drinkers 7.4% problem drinkers, 14.5% alcohol-dependent and 43.6% deceased. The observed to expected mortality ratio of the subjects was 1.6, with the female ratio twice that of the males. © 1986 Medical Council on Alcoholism.