Why alcoholism is now considered a disease?
Alcoholism is now accepted as a disease. It is chronic and often progressive. Its symptoms include a strong need to drink despite negative consequences, such as serious job or health problems. Like many diseases, it has a generally predictable course and is influenced by both genetic (inherited) and environmental factors. Who has an alcohol problem? • Nearly 18 million Americans meet diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders. • Approximately one-half of U.S. adults report family histories of alcoholism or problem drinking. • Construction, along with mining, ranks highest in heavy alcohol use – twice the rate (16 percent) among its workforce when compared with other industries (eight percent). • An estimated 74 percent of current male drinkers and 72 percent of current female drinkers aged 21 and older exceed guidelines for low risk drinking at least once a year. • More than 18 percent of Americans experience alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence at some time in their lives. Harmful e
