Alcoholism
How big of a problem is alcoholism in America?
What is alcoholism?
North America demographics from 2013
16.6 million adults age 18 and up, are classified as alcoholics.
1.3 million adults received treatment.
697,000 adolescents age 12-17 are alcoholics.
New York State demographics from 2010.
1.77 million adults and 156,000 adolescents age 12-17 are alcoholics.
Harmful
Dependence
Alcohol Anonymous
Treatment
Also certain medicine can help people quit. Disulfiram is a drug alcoholics can take that will train the body physically and mentally not to enjoy or want to drink. It causes nausea, vomiting, and head aches when alcohol is drank. These unpleasant experiences cause the person to not want to drink. Topiranate helps control impulsiveness, reducing the amount a person wants to drink.
Complications of Alcoholism
Alcoholism can lead to liver disorders, gastrointestinal problems, certain types of cancers, effects on fetal development, and effects on weight and diabetes.
Vocabulary
Topiramate-Used to control compulsiveness.
Gastrointestinal- Relating to the stomach or intestines.