What is it?
Alcohol contains ethanol, a psychoactive and toxic substance. It is the most commonly used substance in the United States and alcohol use disorder is the most common substance use disorder in the country.
Side Effects
Short-Term
- Vomiting
- Fast heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Slow Breathing
- Headache
- Confusion
- Alcohol Poisoning
- Injuries
- Violence
- Overdose
Long-Term
- Stroke
- Cardiovascular problems
- Anxiety, Depression, and Suicide
- Liver disease
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Alcoholism
- Memory Problems
- Dementia
- High Blood Pressure
- Cancer
Why is it dangerous?
Alcohol functions as a depressant and reduces brain activity. When alcohol is consumed by youth, it affects their brain development which can lead to problem-solving skills, memory, personality, and behavior issues. Furthermore, alcohol impacts vital organs such as the heart, liver, stomach, and pancreas contributing to conditions such as stroke, high blood pressure, gastritis, fatty liver, and pancreatitis.
Alcohol increases the risk of developing head, neck, esophageal, liver, colorectal, and breast cancer. Additionally, binge drinking is a major cause of alcohol poisoning, which can lead to death.