Internet-Based Health Intervention for Reducing Heavy Drinking
Author Information
Author(s): Stuart Linke, Elizabeth Murray, Ceri Butler, Paul Wallace
Primary Institution: Camden and Islington Mental Health and Social Care Trust
Hypothesis
Can a web-based intervention effectively reduce alcohol dependency and related problems among heavy drinkers?
Conclusion
The web-based intervention was widely used, and those who completed it reported significant reductions in alcohol dependency and related mental health symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 70% of users found the site through other internet resources.
- Only 16.5% of registrants completed the entire 6-week program.
- Users who completed the program reported significant reductions in alcohol dependency and related problems.
Takeaway
This study shows that a website can help heavy drinkers cut down on their drinking, but many people who start the program don't finish it.
Methodology
Cohort study analyzing data from 10,000 users of a web-based intervention for heavy drinkers, with demographic data collected and outcome measures assessed at weeks 1 and 6.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce bias, as users could provide inaccurate information.
Limitations
The study was uncontrolled, relying on self-reported data, which may not be entirely accurate.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 37.4 years, 51.1% female, 37.5% single, predominantly White British, with a majority living in the UK.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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