Identification and Intervention of Heavy Drinking in Middle‐Aged Men: Results and Follow‐up of 24–60 Months of Long‐Term Study with Randomized Controls

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
In a continuing screening and intervention program in Malmo [Sweden], elevated serum .gamma.-glutamyltrasferase (GGT) values were used for selection of heavy drinkers. The study population consisted of 585 individuals born 1926-1933 with 2 consecutive GGT values in the upper decile of the GGT distribution, randomly allocated either to an intervention group or to a control group. The subjects in the intervention group were further investigated and 75% of them were judged to have elevated GGT values caused by alcohol consumption. These individuals were repeatedly encouraged to lower their overall alcohol consumption and GGT measurements were used as biofeedback method in the treatment program. The controls were informed by letter to be restrictive with their alcohol consumption and that they should receive new invitations for measurements of their liver enzymes after 2, 4 and 6 yr. The intervention and control groups were well matched and followed over a 2- to 6-yr period. Two and 4 yr after the screening investigation, the GGT values in both groups were significantly decreased. There were differences, however, between the 2 groups with regard to sick absenteeism, hospitalization, and mortality. A significant reduction was found in sick absence during 4 yr by 80%, in hospital days during 5 yr by 60%, and in mortality during 6 yr by 50% in the intervention group compared with the control group. The intervention program was effective in preventing medico-social consequences of heavy drinking.