Alcohol abuse is on the rise in the United States, with the number of alcohol-related deaths doubling from 1999 to 2017, and soaring even higher during the Covid-19 pandemic. A study published in 2020 showed that significant increases in mortality started emerging in the mid-2010s, with the steepest rate of acceleration among younger, white individuals, especially women. Advertising that portrays alcohol as socially acceptable and linked to success may be contributing to this trend, as research shows a strong association between youth-appealing alcohol advertisements and increased consumption among both underage youth and adults.
The negative health effects of alcohol abuse are numerous, including liver and cardiovascular diseases, multiple types of cancer, and alcohol use disorder. In addition, consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time can lead to alcohol poisoning and other dangers, such as motor vehicle accidents. Despite these risks, moderate alcohol consumption is still enjoyed by many people and can have social and potential health benefits. However, health entities like the Mayo Clinic are now emphasizing the health risks associated with any amount of alcohol consumption, while some experts are questioning the industry influence on dietary guidelines related to alcohol.
Treatment for alcohol dependence is available, with research showing that early preventive strategies can be effective. However, access to quality care for alcohol misuse and associated diseases is often lacking, and there may be a stigma attached to seeking help for alcohol-related issues. Public health specialists are calling for a national dialogue on substance misuse, including alcohol, to improve access to therapy for alcohol use disorders, implement possible curbs on alcohol advertising, and increase awareness and education campaigns.
Despite the growing toll of alcohol abuse, it has not yet been declared a public health emergency in the United States. Without this designation, sufficient funding for a nationwide alcohol policy has not been prioritized by the federal government. Experts are urging for more urgency in addressing alcohol abuse, including more research on alcoholism, addiction, and abuse, and improved access to treatment. The recent alarming figures on alcohol-related deaths may help to stimulate more action on this issue in the future.
