April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Alcohol is the oldest and most widely used drug in the world. There are an estimated 10 to 15 million problem drinkers (or alcoholics) in the United States. Alcohol-related automobile accidents are the leading cause of death of
Americans aged 15 to 24 years. Problems associated with alcohol are crimes, accidents, violence and disturbances. Remember the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old.
What iS the affeCt of alCohol abuSe?
Health complications associated with alcohol abuse are not always thought about, but they include impaired vision and motor coordination, memory defects, blackouts and
seizures. Long-term consumption can result in permanent damage to the brain. Alcohol abuse can also result in increased blood pressure, heart rate, risk of stroke and heart failure. The risk of mouth and throat cancer increases with alcohol abuse as well.
Liver Disease kills 25,000 Americans each year, which is caused by chronic alcohol abuse and includes alcoholic fatty liver, hepatitis and cirrhosis. Other physiological dangers
associated with alcohol abuse include ulcers, reflux, diarrhea and damage to the pancreas and kidneys. Lastly, alcohol consumption may cause malnutrition by disrupting the absorption of nutrients in food and suppressing the immune system. Don't forget the impaired judgment, verbal ability, apathy, antisocial behavior, introversion, inability to concentrate and complications of relationships with friends, family and coworkers that are associated with alcohol use.
Men and women are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior when they are under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. Risky sexual behavior can lead to unwanted
pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to unprotected sex. Remember that to reduce your risk of STIs use protection such as condoms and dental dams during oral sex and condoms during intercourse - every time.
One in five college students participate in unsafe sex practices when they are under the influence. 60 percent of college women reported that they were under the influence of
alcohol at the time they had intercourse with a person infected by STIs.
What are the Warning SignS of alCohol abuSe?
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you may have a problem with alcohol.
Do you ever forget what you did while drinking? Do you get hangovers or headaches the next day after drinking? Does drinking ever make you late for prior engagements? Does your drinking worry your family or friends? Do you drink alone when you feel sad or angry? Do you ever drink after you tell yourself you won't?
If you or someone you know has signs of alcohol abuse contact the Longwood Student Health and Wellness Counseling Center at 434-395-2409.
Next week's article will describe signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning and what to do if it occurs, as
well as other important information about alcohol safety before Spring Weekend.
