I think that having any program is better than none. Yet one estimate is that 80% of all alcoholics quit on their own. I would say I'm in good company with those that succeed living an alcohol free life no matter how its done.

"There is a high rate of recovery among alcoholics and addicts, treated and untreated. According to one estimate, heroin addicts break the habit in an average of 11 years. Another estimate is that at least 50% of alcoholics eventually free themselves although only 10% are ever treated. One recent study found that 80% of all alcoholics who recover for a year or more do so on their own, some after being unsuccessfully treated. When a group of these self-treated alcoholics was interviewed, 57% said they simply decided that alcohol was bad for them. Twenty-nine percent said health problems, frightening experiences, accidents, or blackouts persuaded them to quit. Others used such phrases as "Things were building up" or "I was sick and tired of it." Support from a husband or wife was important in sustaining the resolution."
Treatment of Drug Abuse and Addiction — Part III, The Harvard Mental Health Letter, Volume 12, Number 4, October 1995, page 3.(See Aug. (Part I), Sept. (Part II), Oct. 1995 (Part III).)

As for the numbers, that may represent 10's of millions of people or more! Again I'm sticking with the winners .

From the looks of things, whatever floats ones boat will work.