Alcohol Abuse Essay -- Diseases, Disorders

Alcohol is the most commonly used drug in the United States. Although the consumption of alcohol by itself is not a social problem, the continuous and excessive use of alcohol can become problematic. There are four symptoms associated with alcohol dependence which are craving, loss of control, physical dependence, and tolerance. 17.6 million People, or one in every 12 adults, suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence along with several million more who engage in risky, binge drinking patterns that could lead to alcohol problems. (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, n.d.) The United States has banned drugs such as heroin, LSD, and marijuana in the United States because they claim that these drugs dangerous and that these drugs have no medical purpose. Should the United States ban the sale of alcohol? Why would people put something poisonous inside their body that would cause bodily harm? Everyday people do that when they consume alcohol. Alcohol can have long lasting effects that can lead to serious health complications later in life. Studies have shown that long-term alcohol abuse produces serious, harmful effects on a variety of the body's organ systems. Parts of the human body most affected include the liver and the immune, cardiovascular, and skeletal systems. (Alcohol Research & Health Winter 2000) Heavy alcohol use is the leading cause of illness and death from liver disease in the United States. Deaths from chronic liver disease are among 4 times higher among Native Americans and Alaska Natives than among the rest of the U.S. population. Alcoholism is a not a curable disease but it can be treated. There are several different ways to treat Alcoholism. Relapse prevention uses methods for recognizing problem... ...nts. Those suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) were more likely to be associated with alcohol than those who do not appear to have any symptoms. Works Cited National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. (n.d.). Learn about alcohol. Retrieved from http://www.ncadd.org/index.php/learn-about-alcohol/faqsfacts "Medical Consequences of Alcohol Abuse." Alcohol Research & Health Winter 2000: 27. Academic OneFile. Web. 31 Mar. 2012. Edward M. Brecher, E. O. C. R. M. (n.d.). Should alcohol be prohibited?. Retrieved from http://www.druglibrary.org/schaffer/library/studies/cu/cu32.html Dryden-Edwards, R. (n.d.). Alcohol abuse and alcoholism. Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/alcohol_abuse_and_alcoholism/page6.htm National center for ptsd. (2011, December 20). Retrieved from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/ptsd-alcohol-use.asp