Question: Who Develops Alcohol Problems?
Answer: According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nearly 14 million people in the United States-1 in every 13 adults- have alcohol abuse or dependence. More men than women are alcohol dependent or have other types of alcohol problems.
Rates of alcohol problems are highest among young adults ages 18-29 and lowest among adults 65 years and older. About 43 percent of U.S. adults (76 million people) have been exposed to alcoholism in the family; they grew up with, married an alcoholic or problem drinker, or had a blood relative who was an alcoholic or problem drinker.
Although alcohol abuse and dependence tend to run in families, risk is not destiny. A combination of genetic and environmental factors determines who develops alcohol problems.
