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Could the Internet curb alcoholism?

A new report hints that computer programmes may help some alcoholics drink a little less.

Could the Internet curb alcoholism?

A new report hints that computer programmes may help some alcoholics drink a little less.

Previous research has shown doctors can help curb excessive drinking when the problem is identified and addressed early on. But alcoholism is often identified too late for brief interventions to make much of a difference.

British researchers scoured the medical literature for studies of computer-based interventions, which in principle would be easily available to most people in developed countries. The 24 studies they settled on ranged widely in size, involving more than 5,600 participants overall. The specific interventions also varied. Some provided little more than information, while others had interactive games and videos that passed on health messages to the user.

Sixteen studies showed the treatments helped people slash drinking by an average of 26 grams per week, or about two cans of beer. The researchers found the programs cut heavy drinkers' alcohol use by about two drinks per week compared to just handing out factual health advice.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define heavy drinking as more than two drinks per day for men, and more than one for women. But many studies reported their data in a way that could potentially make the effect seem bigger than it is. Not all of the studies analyzed were positive, and those that were had limitations - most of the reports so far have been limited to students, for whom the intervention appears to work less well. Still, if computer-based interventions are effective, it could have major consequences for individuals who struggle with alcoholism. From the user's perspective, the intervention offers convenience, flexibility of use, low cost, and privacy, which is particularly important in reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for an alcohol problem.
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