Article
Factors associated with attendance in 12-step groups (Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous) among adults with alcohol problems living with HIV/AIDS
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
(2010)
Abstract
Background: Despite the value of 12-step meetings, few studies have examined factors associated with attendance among those living with HIV/AIDS, such as the impact of HIV disease severity and demographics. Objective: This study examines predisposing characteristics, enabling resources and need on attendance at Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings among those living with HIV/AIDS and alcohol problems. Methods: Secondary analysis of prospective data from the HIV-Longitudinal Interrelationships of Viruses And Ethanol study, a cohort of 400 adults living with HIV/AIDS and alcohol problems. Factors associated with AA/NA attendance were identified using the Anderson model for vulnerable populations. Generalized estimating equation logistic regression models were fit to identify factors associated with self-reported AA/NA attendance. Results: At study entry, subjects were 75% male, 12% met diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence, 43% had drug dependence and 56% reported attending one or more AA/NA meetings (past 6 months). In the adjusted model, female gender negatively associated with attendance, as were social support systems that use alcohol and/or drugs, while presence of HCV antibody, drug dependence diagnosis, and homelessness associated with higher odds of attendance. Conclusions: Non-substance abuse related barriers to AA/NA group attendance exist for those living with HIV/AIDS, including females and social support systems that use alcohol and/or drugs. Positive associations of homelessness, HCV infection and current drug dependence were identified. These findings provide implications for policy makers and treatment professionals who wish to encourage attendance at 12-step meetings for those living with HIV/AIDS and alcohol or other substance use problems.
Keywords
- HIV-infection,
- alcohol addiction disorder,
- substance-related disorders,
- 12 step groups,
- HIV/AIDS
Publication Date
September 15, 2010
DOI
10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2010.07.021
Publisher Statement
© 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Citation Information
John Orwat, Jeffrey H. Samet, Christopher P. Tompkins, Debbie M Cheng, et al.. "Factors associated with attendance in 12-step groups (Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous) among adults with alcohol problems living with HIV/AIDS" Drug and Alcohol Dependence Vol. 113 (2010) p. 165 - 171 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/john_orwat/9/