Alcoholism : A Widespread Problem

Excessive habitual consumption of alcoholic beverages despite physical, mental, social, or economic harm (e.g., cirrhosis, drunk driving and accidents, family strife, frequently missing work). It is usually considered an addiction and a disease. The causes are unclear, but there may be a genetic predisposition. Alcoholism occurs in about 4.2% of adults in the U.S. It is more common in men, but women are more likely to hide it. Treatment may be physiological (with drugs that cause vomiting and a feeling of panic when alcohol is consumed; not an effective long-term treatment), psychological (with therapy and rehabilitation), and/or social (with group therapies). Group therapies such as Alcoholics Anonymous are the most effective treatments. Suddenly stopstopping heavy drinking can lead to withdrawal symptoms, incl. delirium tremens.