The Epidemiology of At-Risk and Binge Drinking Among Middle-Aged and Elderly Community Adults: National Survey on Drug Use and Health

• DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2009.09010016
• Publication Date: 2009-08-18T00:50:04Z
• Authors: Dan G. Blazer; Li-Tzy Wu
• Keywords: Binge drinking

Objective: The purpose of this article was to estimate the prevalence, distribution, and correlates at-risk alcohol use (especially binge drinking) among middle-aged elderly persons in United States compare between women men. Method: Secondary analysis 2005 2006 National Survey on Drug Use Health conducted for 10,953 respondents aged 50 years older. Among respondents, 6,717 were 64 age 4,236 ≥65 years. Social demographic variables, (including use), drinking, serious psychological distress, self-rated health assessed. Results: Overall, 66% male 55% female reported during past year. At-risk drinking more frequent relative 65 or In old group, 13% men 8% use, than 14% 3% drinking. subjects, compared with no associated higher income being separated, divorced, widowed, while employed nonmedical prescription drugs women. For all tobacco illicit drugs. who using alcohol, African American less educated but race/ethnicity educational level not alcohol. Conclusions: are frequently by adults nationwide therefore public concern. Clinicians working older should screen coexisting other substances.