Health Tip
Health Tips Brought to You By A.D.A.M.'s
Alcohol Use Disorder
Many people enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, or a beer at the end of a long day. Research has even shown that drinking a moderate amount of alcohol can have a modest health benefit. However, excessive alcohol consumption (drinking too much, too often) is one of the most significant public health issues in the United States, and in the rest of the world.
In the United States:
- Alcohol use disorder affects an estimated 18 million Americans
- Binge drinking (consuming 5 or more alcoholic drinks on the same occasion on at least one day in the past month) affects nearly one quarter of people age 18 and older
- About 7% of ages 12-17 report binge drinking
Using A.D.A.M.'s NCQA accredited Wellness Tool for Risky Drinking, you can answer a few simple questions about your alcohol consumption. The responses to these questions will help you figure out if you need to seek professional help. In addition, A.D.A.M.'s evidence-based articles can help you understand the health risks of drinking too much, as well as giving you tips on cutting back. If you have any questions about Risky Drinking, Ask A Doctor.
If you would like to know more about this Health Tip, Ask A Doctor
