Medical consequences of unhealthy alcohol

Abstract

Alcohol consumption may increase the risk of causing a myriad of medical and mental health conditions and contributing to the morbidity of these conditions. Risky alcohol use (consumption amounts that place a person at risk for health consequences) may also complicate medical treatment by reducing adherence to medication and attention to treatment plans. Unhealthy behaviors, including unprotected sex, illicit drug use, drinking while driving, often occur with alcohol consumption and additionally contribute to medical diseases and trauma. Furthermore, co-existing health conditions, use of tobacco and other abused substances, and genetic and environmental factors can also influence development of specific disease in alcohol users. Alcohol use is the third leading cause of preventable death in the United States.