Research Paper on:
Research Paper on Alcoholism

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More than 30 percent of Americans have experienced what has been classified as an alcohol dependency disorder (Knack 86). According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism,  three out of every ten American adults consume alcohol quantities, which affect both the individual and society (Health Effects 2). A study by Gmel and Rehm concluded, "Alcohol misuse  is linked to many harmful consequences for society as a whole and for others in the drinkers environment" (52). The fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of  Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) defines alcoholism as the abuse of an alcoholic substance that results in: * Inability to perform school, work or home roles (absences, inadequate job performance, and child  neglect or abuse); * Drinking in potentially dangerous situations such as driving or during the operation of machinery; * Repeated legal issues related to alcohol, such as DUIs  or disorderly conduct; and * Continuation of drinking despite mounting social and personal problems (work conflict and marital discord) (Gmel and Rehm 52). Alcoholism affects the individual in  a variety of ways that are detrimental to physical health. For example, alcoholism can exacerbate preexisting medical conditions such as diabetes, hepatitis C, and HIV (Health Effects 2).  It can also cause nutritional issues, lead to alcohol poisoning, cause psychological problems, and incidences of hypertension (high blood pressure), cerebral hemorrhage (stroke), cirrhosis of the liver, cardiomyopathy, pancreatitis, seizures,  and several types of cancer (Health Effects 2). In addition, parental alcoholism during pregnancy can result in fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), and according to Gmel and Rhem, there may  be at least 30 babies reportedly born with FAS per 10,000 (52). Interestingly, however, while alcohol clearly poses several serious and potentially fatal health dangers, there are medical researchers