Results of the univariate Cox proportional hazards analyses are seen in Table 2, indicating significant individual associations between each covariate and the survival curve: (a) Stage I shows time to first drink; (b) Stage II shows time from first drink to at-risk drinking; and (c) Stage III shows time from at-risk drinking to AD (without adjusting for demographics). In Stage I, every risk factor and every religion variable was found to influence time to initiation of drinking. The sign of the regression coefficient, if negative, indicated a protective effect (defined as a delay in progression) and, if positive, indicated an increase in risk (defined as accelerated progression). All risk factors accelerated initiation of drinking; the “personal R/S” measures (motivation/devotion, weekly attendance, and existential well-being) delayed initiation. Concerning R/S affiliation types, three affiliation variables delayed initiation: affiliations with rules against alcohol use, and both childhood and current Differentiating religious affiliation. In contrast, three affiliation categories had positive coefficients indicating accelerated initiation of drinking: Accommodating, Catholic, and endorsing no religious affiliation.
