Yes it does take others with it. Maybe not a direct death but it can shorten a life span.
As to meetings... Some can get by with one, others may find 10 a week works for them. As we grow in recovery, we learn to carry the tools of recoevry with us. Sooner or later, we may find the amount of meetings we need become less. The important thing...remembering where meetings are and being able to recognise the need for a meeting and then going as needed.