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Alcohol

Men in suits carrying glasses of white wine

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?

RELATED TOPICS

- Mental health

- Substance abuse

- Chronic diseases

- Road traffic injuries

- Interpersonal violence and alcohol: fact sheets

- Adolescent health

- Tobacco

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


WHO PROGRAMME AND ACTIVITIES

Department of Substance Abuse
ALCOHOL IN WHO REGIONS

African Region
Region of the Americas–PAHO
South-East Asia Region
European Region
Western Pacific Region