Work

Developing web-based interventions for alcohol use screening and alcohol education administered by village health volunteers in the community setting

Year: 2024

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Given technology's rising importance in addressing alcohol issues, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of web-based interventions and that of traditional paper-based methods for alcohol use screening and education administered by village health volunteers (VHVs) in Thailand. METHODS: This cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in two Thai villages with similar demographics and alcohol-use patterns. The villages were randomly assigned to either a web-based or a paper-based intervention group. The web-based group accessed screenings and interventions through a digital platform designed to facilitate participant interaction and data collection, whereas the paper-based group used conventional face-to-face screenings, paper questionnaires, and printed educational materials. RESULTS: Of the 1396 participants, those in the web-based group (n = 421) demonstrated a significantly higher likelihood of abstaining from or discontinuing alcohol use by the third session compared to those in the paper group (n = 975) (adjusted odds ratio 1.88-8.11). Additionally, satisfaction among VHVs regarding the ease of use and data accuracy was notably higher in the web-based group, with scores averaging 20 % higher than those in the control group. CONCLUSION: Web-based interventions are more effective and efficient than traditional methods and provide a promising tool for expanding alcohol use disorder screening and education. This approach not only enhances participation rates but also improves the accuracy and reliability of health data collection.

Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence

DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.112461

Authors: Polathep Vichitkunakorn, Chutarat Sathirapanya, Napakkawat Buathong, Phoomjai Sornsenee, Sitthichok Chaichulee, Teerohah Donraman

Institution: Prince of Songkla University

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,090