The co-occurrence of alcohol-use and anxiety disorders: a population-based study

Introduction:
Many studies indicate that anxiety disorder (AD) co-occurs with alcohol-use disorder (AUD). The article aims to estimate their prevalence in the Polish adult population, their socio-demographic determinants, and the use of medical services by those affected.

Material and methods:
Data from the EZOP II study, conducted using the CAPI method on a nationwide random sample between 2018 and 2019 with the CIDI 21.1.4 questionnaire was analysed. There were 4,776 interviews and cross-tabulations and logistic regression analysis were used.

Results:
The co-occurrence of AD and AUD was observed in 1.92% (605,700 individuals when extrapolated to the adult Polish population aged 18+). AD increases the risk of AUD by about 3.4 times, and having AUD makes AD 3.3 times more likely when controlling for socio-demographic characteristics. Co-occurrence is more common among men than women, individuals aged 30-39 and 50-64, residents of medium-sized cities, individuals with a relatively lower level of education, those in informal relationships and the unemployed. Widows and widowers are at lower risk. Those with co-occurring disorders are more likely than others (with AD or AUD or without both) to be hospitalised, use pharmacotherapy and attend self-help groups.

Discussion:
The association between AUD and AD is consistent with the results of other studies. Co-occurrence of disorders is more likely in men, which is inconsistent with the research of Chang et al. (2020). Comorbidity may affect the socioeconomic status, although the direction of the relationship may also be reversed.

Conclusions:
The comorbidity of AD and AUD may have important social consequences though is poorly recognised and requires further study.