The Addiction Policy Forum’s recent video, “Alcohol and Your Health,” presents a comprehensive overview of the health risks associated with alcohol consumption. The video highlights that alcohol, the most commonly used substance among individuals aged 12 and older in the United States, poses significant health risks even at low levels of consumption. Excessive alcohol use is a leading preventable cause of death in the country, contributing to over 178,000 deaths annually. It is also associated with an increased risk of developing seven types of cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular conditions. The video emphasizes the heightened impact of alcohol on adolescents and young adults, whose brains are not fully developed until their mid-20s. Guidelines for moderate drinking are provided, defining limits to help minimize risks, while strategies for harm reduction include limiting intake, avoiding daily consumption, and not drinking alone or before 5:00 p.m. The video also discusses alcohol use disorder, the most prevalent addiction in the U.S., affecting nearly 30 million people, and urges individuals concerned about their alcohol use to seek professional support.
Find more from the Addiction Policy Forum (USA, 2024)
Alcohol Awareness 