Alcohol Use and Abuse

Problem drinking (alcohol abuse or dependence) affects 18.2 million people in the United States alone nearly one in every 13 adults and teens ages 12 and over. Millions more Americans engage in risky drinking behaviors, such as driving under the influence or being intoxicated while having direct responsibility for another person's well-being. Alcohol misuse sharply raises the risk of illness or death from numerous health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and some types of cancer.