Table 2 Current drinking status, self-identified prior problem recognition and ‘in recovery’ status of former heavy drinkers in the UK or USA

% Current moderate drinker (versus abstinent)

81.4

73.6

0.300

% Lifetime ICD10 alcohol dependence

32.9

35.0

0.841

% Had problem, now no longer do

24.1

56.0

0.001

% Major/very major problem when drinking at heaviest

10.3

32.1

0.002

% In recovery

4.2

21.2

0.003

% Ever in recovery

7.4

30.2

0.001