What is Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol Dependence is a condition characterized by the harmful consequences of repeated alcohol use, a pattern of compulsive alcohol use, and (sometimes) physiological dependence on alcohol (i.e., tolerance and/or symptoms of withdrawal). The individual may use alcohol in physically hazardous circumstances (e.g., drunk driving or operating machinery while intoxicated). Alcohol intoxication causes significant intellectual impairment (and stupid behavior).

Only 5% of individuals with Alcohol Dependence ever experience severe complications of withdrawal (e.g., delirium, grand mal seizures). Alcohol Dependence can suppress immune mechanisms and predispose individuals to infections (e.g., pneumonia) and increase the risk for cancer.

Comorbidity:

Individuals with Alcohol Dependence are at increased risk for Major Depressive Disorder, other Substance-Related Disorders (e.g., drug addiction), Conduct Disorder in adolescents, Antisocial and Emotionally Unstable (Borderline) Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorder.

Associated Laboratory Findings:

The most direct test available to measure alcohol consumption is blood alcohol concentration, which can also be used to judge tolerance to alcohol.

Prevalence:

Alcohol use is highly prevalent in most Western countries. However, in most Asian cultures, the overall prevalence of Alcohol-Related Disorders is relatively low. In Muslim countries, the Islamic religion strictly prohibits alcohol (hence the rates of Alcohol-Related Disorders are very low). The lifetime risk of Alcohol Dependence is approximately 15% in the general population. The risk for Alcohol Dependence is 3 to 4 times higher in close relatives of people with Alcohol Dependence. Most studies have found a significantly higher risk for Alcohol Dependence in the monozygotic twin than in the dizygotic twin of a person with Alcohol Dependence. Some individuals (perhaps 20% or more) with Alcohol Dependence achieve long-term sobriety even without treatment.