Factors associated with remission from alcohol dependence in an American Indian community group.
OBJECTIVE
This study identified factors associated with remission from DSM-III-R alcohol dependence in an American Indian community group.


METHODS
Participants were assessed by using the Semi-Structured Assessment for the Genetics of Alcoholism.


RESULTS
Five hundred eighty participants were assessed for alcohol use and alcohol use symptoms; 254 participants were found to have alcohol dependence. The rate of remission in this group was 59%. Thirty-four percent of remitters and 39% of nonremitters had received treatment for alcohol problems. Remission from alcohol dependence was associated with being female, older, and married; an earlier age of onset of alcohol dependence; and self-reported depression symptoms from drinking. Absence of remission was associated with continuing to drink despite knowing one had medical problems from drinking and self-reported anxiety symptoms from drinking.


CONCLUSIONS
Attention to factors associated with remission from alcohol dependence may be important in designing more effective treatment and prevention programs in this high-risk population.
Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Rd., SP30-1501, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
David A
DA
Gilder
Philip
P
Lau
Linda
L
Corey
Cindy L
CL
Ehlers
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000375:Aging; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D015897:Comorbidity; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D015995:Prevalence; D012074:Remission Induction; D012944:Social Support; D013695:Temperance; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology