A Widespread Problem Currently, nearly 14 million Americans -- 1 in every 13 adults -- abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. What Are the Signs of a Problem? What Are the Signs of a Problem? Alcholism Resources For more information on alcohol abuse and alcoholism, contact these organizations. The Decision To Get Help Acknowledging that help is needed for an alcohol problem may not be easy. But keep in mind that the sooner a person gets help, the better are his or her chances for a successful recovery. What Is Alcoholism? Alcoholism, which is also known as "alcohol dependence syndrome," is a disease that is characterized by specific elements. New Directions Scientists at medical centers and universities throughout the country are studying alcoholism. The goal of this research is to develop more effective ways of treating and preventing alcohol problems. Impact on Society Alcoholism and alochol abuse have a far-reaching effect on society in many areas. Impact on Children's Health and Safety Underage alcohol use is a significant threat to the health and safety of our children. Ecstasy Can Trigger Heart Attacks The illegal drug MDMA more commonly known as "Ecstasy" or "XTC," can trigger heart attacks, according to a case report in the December issue of Annals of Emergency Medicine. Per Capita Alcohol Consumption, Based on Alcohol Sales Data Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Self-Reported Amounts and Patterns of Alcohol Consumption Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Prevalence of Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Dependence Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Deaths from Cirrhosis of the Liver Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Alcohol-Related Fatal Traffic Crashes Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Alcohol-Related Short-Stay Hospital Discharges Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Alcohol-Related Economic Data Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Alcohol-Related Risk Factors Among Adults Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Alcohol-Related Risk Behaviors Among Youth Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Other Alcohol-Related Information Statistics compiled by the National Institue for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. How Does Alcohol Affect the World of a Child? This is a concise and easy-to-read National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism brochure that pulls together a range of statistics on alcohol use by kids. Alcohol - Getting the Facts The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has prepared this information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems. Tips For Teens Speaking frankly with teens about alcohol and drug use is a challenge for any friend, parent or caring adult. Questions and concerns are sure to abound. Drinking Increases Physical Abuse Men who drink alcohol and have a predisposition for physical violence toward their female partners are more likely to be violent on the days they drink alcohol, according to a study. Early Drinking Onset Increases Lifetime Injury Risk The younger people are when they begin drinking the more likely they are to be injured later in life when under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol Disorders Among College Students A new study shows that six percent of college students meet criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol dependence (also referred to as alcoholism), and 31 percent meet the clinical criteria for alcohol abuse. |