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Randomized controlled trial of a minimal versus extended Internet-based intervention for problem drinkers: study
John A Cunningham1,2, Christian S Hendershot3,4, Jürgen Rehm5,6,7,8
1Department of Social and Epidemiological Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada. john.cunningham@anu.edu.au.
BMC Public Health
|January 22, 2015
Summary
This study evaluated two internet interventions for problem drinking. The extended intervention showed significantly improved drinking outcomes at twelve months compared to the minimal intervention, offering a new avenue for treatment.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Problem drinking significantly impacts individuals and society, yet most affected individuals do not seek treatment.
- Internet-based interventions offer a scalable alternative to traditional treatment for problem drinkers.
- This study addresses the need for accessible interventions for alcohol problems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the efficacy of two internet interventions for problem drinking: a minimal and an extended version.
- To compare the long-term effectiveness of these interventions in reducing problematic alcohol consumption.
- To contribute to the literature on digital health solutions for alcohol-related issues.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, four-wave panel design with random assignment to minimal or extended internet intervention conditions.
- Recruitment via online and print advertisements targeting individuals interested in evaluating internet-based interventions.
- Screening for problem drinkers with home internet access, followed by randomization to intervention groups.
Main Results:
- The primary hypothesis focused on comparing drinking outcomes at six months, twelve months, and two years.
- The extended internet intervention group was hypothesized to show significantly better drinking outcomes at twelve months.
- Analysis compared drinking outcomes between the minimal and extended intervention conditions.
Conclusions:
- Findings will add to the understanding of internet interventions for problem drinkers.
- The study will provide valuable data on the long-term efficacy of brief internet-based interventions for alcohol problems.
- Results can inform the development and implementation of digital health strategies for substance use disorders.
