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Alcohol

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In many parts of the world, drinking alcoholic beverages is a common feature of social gatherings. Nevertheless, the consumption of alcohol carries a risk of adverse health and social consequences related to its intoxicating, toxic and dependence-producing properties.

In addition to the chronic diseases that may develop in those who drink large amounts of alcohol over a number of years, alcohol use is also associated with an increased risk of acute health conditions, such as injuries, including from traffic accidents.


GENERAL

Facts and figures

Q&A
Is harmful use of alcohol a public health problem?

WHO PROGRAMME AND ACTIVITIES

Department of Substance Abuse

ALCOHOL IN WHO REGIONS

Region of the Americas–PAHO

South-East Asia Region

European Region

Western Pacific Region

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Draft global strategy to reduce harmful use of alcohol

Alcohol epidemiology and monitoring

- More on alcohol

PUBLICATIONS

WHO Expert Committee on problems related to alcohol consumption [pdf 731kb]

Drinking and driving–an international good practice manual

- More publications on alcohol

STATISTICS

Global Information System on Alcohol and Health

RELATED TOPICS

- Mental health

- Substance abuse

- Chronic diseases

- Road traffic injuries

- Interpersonal violence and alcohol: fact sheets

- Adolescent health

- Tobacco


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