Prognosis
Alcohol use disorder significantly increases all-cause mortality, with rates 3.38 to 4.57 times higher than the general population (higher risk for women).
- Poor Prognosis Factors: Long-term consumption (>20 years), high alcohol-related problems (e.g., >5 on questionnaires), comorbid cocaine use, and lower socio-economic status.
- Positive Prognosis Factors: Longer retention in treatment (at least 120 days of treatment/counselling), full-time employment, and, in some cases, shorter abstinence times prior to treatment.
There is evidence that some people move in and out of heavy drinking regardless of treatment. Factors associated with spontaneous improvement include changes in lifestyle or personal relationships, alcohol-induced physical damage or spiritual experiences.
The best results of treatment are obtained from programmes in which patients are carefully selected, receive intense treatment and benefit from careful follow-up. Outcome does not relate closely to the type of treatment or length of in-patient stay.
Reference
- Groschner K. Alcohol and life expectancy. Environ Health Prev Med. 2025 Aug 6;30:61
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