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Is Alcoholism a Disease?

From National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, for About.com

Updated: November 27, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Question: Is Alcoholism a Disease?

Answer: Yes. Alcoholism is a chronic, often progressive disease with symptoms that include a strong need to drink despite negative consequences, such as serious job or health problems. Like many other diseases, it has a generally predictable course, has recognized symptoms, and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors that are being increasingly well defined. (See also Alcohol Alert No. 30: Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Abuse and Dependence.)

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