The DYD-RCT protocol: an on-line randomised controlled trial of an interactive computer-based intervention compared with a standard information website to reduce alcohol consumption among hazardous drinkers.
BACKGROUND
Excessive alcohol consumption is a significant public health problem throughout the world. Although there are a range of effective interventions to help heavy drinkers reduce their alcohol consumption, these have little proven population-level impact. Researchers internationally are looking at the potential of Internet interventions in this area.


METHODS
In a two-arm randomised controlled trial, an on-line psychologically enhanced interactive computer-based intervention is compared with a flat, text-based information web-site. Recruitment, consent, randomisation and data collection are all on-line. The primary outcome is total past-week alcohol consumption; secondary outcomes include hazardous or harmful drinking, dependence, harm caused by alcohol, and mental health. A health economic analysis is included.


CONCLUSIONS
This trial will provide information on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an on-line intervention to help heavy drinkers drink less.


BACKGROUND
International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register ISRCTN31070347.
Murray
Elizabeth
E
E-health Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, University College London, Highgate Hill, London N19 5LW, UK. elizabeth.murray@pcps.ucl.ac.uk
McCambridge
Jim
J
Khadjesari
Zarnie
Z
White
Ian R
IR
Thompson
Simon G
SG
Godfrey
Christine
C
Linke
Stuart
S
Wallace
Paul
P
D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000191:economics; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000191:economics; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012307:Risk Factors; D014584:User-Computer Interface