Research published this month suggests that people with drinking problems attending the faith-based Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups are 30 per cent more likely than others to remain sober for at least two years.

The study, which was published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, found their treatment also costs 30 per cent less than conventional cognitive behavioural therapy.

According to lead researcher Dr Keith Humphreys, based at Stanford University in California, this is because the faith-based treatment requires fewer hospital visits and admissions.

In addition, Dr Humphreys told the BBC's Health Check programme that many AA members point to the spiritual component of their 12-step programme as crucial in fighting the
urge to drink.

Its non-doctrinal approach means people of all faiths - or no faith - can benefit.

He noted: "Many people can't buy into AA's basic assumption that you're powerless and have to turn your individual decision making over to a 'higher power'."

An experiment in the benefits of 'meditation' at the nearby King County North Rehabilitation Facility offered the chance for Professor Marlatt to measure its effects among alcoholics and drug addicts.

The ten day programme required the prisoners to meditate silently for up to eleven hours a day.

In the past, the idea of a science of spirituality was a contradiction in terms and few would risk their reputations to study it.

Professor Pargament said: "I think there are a number of scientists who have been sceptical but, like good scientists, have been persuaded by the data.

"And the data suggests that there are some really important links between spirituality and health and wellbeing."