Some 17.6 million Americans have alcohol problems that affect their lives

If alcohol affects your life and your relationships – you have trouble controlling your alcohol intake or depend on alcohol to spend the day – you may be part of the 17, 6 million adult Americans, one in 12, who consume alcohol disorder, according to the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Addiction. This is the medical term for what is commonly called alcoholism. The council states that 7 million children live in a household where at least one parent has abused or is dependent on alcohol, and more than half of adults have a family history of eating disorder. d & # 39; alcohol. There are different degrees, from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms experienced by a person. But a strong need for alcohol, despite its consequences, is common at all levels. The possible health effects of alcohol abuse include an increased risk of several types of cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, heart problems, strokes, stomach bleeding, an weakened immune system, brain damage, mood changes, etc. Excessive consumption of alcohol also increases the risk of death by road accident and various injuries. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, more than 88,000 deaths each year are related to alcohol. But disorder does not have to be fatal. It can be difficult to stop and relapses can occur. However, behavioral therapy, medications and support from family, friends and others in the same situation, such as members of Alcoholics Anonymous, have been effective in helping many people quit drinking.

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