National Health Goals

Introduction

Alcohol and Alcoholic Beverages

• Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol (ethyl alcohol), an intoxicating and addictive drug that is most often misused.
• Alcoholic beverages have varying concentrations of alcohol but often have similar amounts per serving.
• The effect of alcohol on the body depends on many factors.
• The body cannot usually process alcohol as quickly as it is consumed.

Health and Behavioral Consequences of Alcohol

• Heavy alcohol use is associated with an increased risk for a variety of negative health outcomes.
• While heavy drinking presents many risks, moderate consumption can provide some health benefits.
• Women appear to be especially susceptible to the negative health consequences of heavy drinking.
• The greatest danger of alcohol occurs when the drinker gets behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.

Alcohol Consumption and Alcohol Abuse

• The prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption is a major public health challenge.
• Alcohol disorders can develop over time with the repeated use of alcohol.
• College students drink more than the rest of society and are more at risk for alcohol problems than other segments of the population.
• New strategies are being explored to curb drinking on campuses.
• Having a family member with an alcohol problem places you at increased risk for developing a problem yourself.
• Age of onset of alcohol use is associated with later problems.
• Environment also plays a role in the initiation and escalation of alcohol use.
• Beliefs about the effects of alcohol develop early and play an important role in later drinking behavior.

Strategies for Action

• Determining if a problem exists is an important strategy for taking action.
• If you currently exceed safe levels of alcohol consumption, you can take steps to control your drinking.
• If you are giving a party at which alcohol will be served, be a responsible host.
• If you think you have a problem with alcohol, help is available.

Web Resources

Suggested Readings