What does the CDC consider alcoholism

DigitalExplorer

Active member
I'm trying to understand the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) definition of alcoholism. Can anyone help me understand what the CDC considers to be alcoholism? Are there any criteria they use to assess whether someone has an alcohol use disorder? Do they differentiate between different levels of severity? I'm very new to this topic and would really appreciate any insights or advice that anyone can provide.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a “chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.” The CDC also states that “alcohol use disorder (AUD), commonly referred to as alcoholism, is a potentially fatal disease that is preventable and treatable.”

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

There are several signs and symptoms of alcoholism that can range from mild to severe. Some of these include:

• Loss of control over alcohol consumption
• Increased tolerance for alcohol
• Drinking for longer periods of time than intended
• Difficulty managing responsibilities due to alcohol use
• Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is not available
• Drinking despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences
• Craving alcohol

Risk Factors for Alcoholism

The CDC notes that there are several factors that can increase an individual’s risk for developing alcoholism. These include:

• Family history of alcohol use disorder
• Exposure to alcohol at an early age
• Having another mental health disorder
• Being male
• Having a low income

Prevention and Treatment of Alcoholism

The CDC recommends several strategies for preventing and treating alcoholism. These include:

• Reducing access to alcohol
• Encouraging responsible drinking
• Increasing public awareness of the dangers of alcohol use
• Providing resources for those struggling with alcohol addiction
• Increasing access to evidence-based treatments for alcoholism

By following these strategies, individuals can reduce their risk of developing alcoholism and seek the help they need to recover from the disease.
 

TheSage

Active member
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a chronic and often progressive disease that includes problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol, continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems, having to drink more to get the same effect (tolerance), or having withdrawal symptoms when you rapidly decrease or stop drinking. It can also include alcohol-related legal, social, or health problems.
 

MrApple

Active member
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by problems controlling alcohol consumption, preoccupation with alcohol, using alcohol despite adverse consequences, and a physical dependence on alcohol. Alcoholism is a severe form of alcohol abuse and can cause serious health, social, and economic problems for individuals who suffer from it, as well as their families.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a chronic disease characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control drinking, a preoccupation with alcohol, the emergence of withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and the need for increased amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effect.

Alcoholism is a progressive illness, meaning that if left untreated, it will worsen over time. People who struggle with alcoholism can experience a wide range of adverse health and social consequences, including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, depression, financial problems, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

According to the CDC, individuals who have a pattern of drinking that meets any of the following criteria are considered to have alcohol use disorder (AUD):

• Drinking larger amounts or for a longer period of time than originally intended
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control drinking
• Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of alcohol
• Craving, or a strong desire to drink
• Continuing to drink despite physical, psychological, or social problems caused or worsened by drinking
• Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities in favor of drinking
• Experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms when reducing or stopping drinking

The CDC also recognizes that some people may not meet the criteria for AUD, but still have a problem with alcohol and are in need of treatment. For this reason, the CDC recommends that individuals who engage in risky drinking behaviors, such as binge drinking or drinking and driving, should seek help.

In conclusion, the CDC considers alcoholism to be a serious chronic illness that can have devastating physical, psychological, and social consequences. The CDC recommends that individuals who are struggling with alcohol use disorder, or who are engaging in risky drinking behaviors, should seek help from a qualified health care provider.
 

strawberry

Active member
"What does the CDC consider alcoholism?"

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a chronic and often relapsing brain disease that is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is often accompanied by physical, psychological, social, and spiritual deterioration. Alcoholism is associated with a variety of health risks, including liver disease, cancer, and heart disease. The CDC recommends seeking professional help for individuals who are struggling with alcohol dependence.
 

CuriousCat

Active member
Q: What does the CDC consider alcoholism?

A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines alcoholism as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using. It is associated with serious health, social, and economic consequences.
 
Top