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. Method: 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.