We all enjoy light drinking during gatherings, social events and celebrations. Social drinking is quite common and widely accepted in all cultures, but it is your own duty to not push past your limits and end up so inebriated that you lose control over your own actions. But what if you were to find out, the reason you have trouble controlling yourself with alcohol consumption is because of your genes? Like many other chronic diseases and conditions, studies have shown that alcoholism can also be genetic. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) has been recognized by WHO and it is a condition that affects many people.How Do Your Genes Affect AUD?Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While genetics can play a significant role, it's not the sole determinant. Certain genes can increase an individual's susceptibility to alcohol addiction by affecting how the body processes alcohol. However, it's important to note that having a genetic predisposition does not guarantee the development of AUD.According to WHO alcohol is a harmful substance that can lead to serious health problems. It can cause addiction, and excessive drinking can lead to death. In 2019, millions of people died from alcohol-related causes, including accidents, diseases, and injuries. Men are more likely to die from alcohol-related causes than women. Millions of people worldwide struggle with alcohol use disorder, a condition characterized by excessive alcohol consumption and a loss of control over drinking.Even moderate drinking can have negative health consequences, but heavy drinking is particularly harmful. To reduce the risks associated with alcohol consumption, it's important to be aware of the dangers and to drink responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use disorder, seek help from a healthcare professional.What Are Some Health Risks Of Alcohol Abuse? American Addiction Centre reports that alcohol consumption is a major public health concern worldwide. It is linked to a wide range of health problems, including,Noncommunicable DiseasesExcessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of developing serious health conditions like liver diseases, heart diseases, and various types of cancer, including breast, liver, and esophageal cancer.Mental Health IssuesAlcohol can contribute to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and alcohol use disorder.Injuries and AccidentsAlcohol is a leading cause of accidents, including car crashes, falls, and violence.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can harm a developing fetus, leading to severe birth defects and developmental disabilities.Treatment Options For Alcohol Use DisorderA 2016 study published by Alcohol and Alcoholism showed that genes increase the risk if developing AUD by 50% and the rest comes from surrounding and the environment you live in. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to help individuals recover. Here are some treatment options that are availabel for you according to National Institute on Alcohol ABuse and AlcoholismMedicationSeveral medications have been approved to help people reduce or stop drinking. Naltrexone, for example, can reduce alcohol cravings and block the pleasurable effects of drinking. Acamprosate can help you reduce alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Disulfiram can cause unpleasant side effects when alcohol is consumed, which makes them not want to drinkBehavioral TherapiesBehavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, can be effective in helping individuals change their drinking behaviors. These therapies can help people develop coping skills, and teaches them how to challenge negative thoughts, and build motivation to change.Mutual-Support GroupsMutual-support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), offer a supportive environment where individuals can connect with others who share similar experiences. These groups provide a safe space to share feelings, learn from others, and develop coping strategies.
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