Influence of Temperance on Short-Term Mortality Among Alcohol-Dependent men in Sri Lanka

This article reports on a study of 118 alcohol-dependent men admitted to a rehabilitation unit. In follow-up over 3 years, 115 relapsed to continued heavy drinking; 73 were totally abstinent or drank infrequently. Overall mortality was 9.6 %. Mortality among heavy drinkers was 13.9%. 15 of 16 deaths among the heavy drinkers were alcohol-related & included 5 suicides & accidents. Conclusion: temperance significantly reduces short-term mortality in alcohol-dependent men. (7 Refs.)