Alcohol abuse, which is much different from alcoholism, is the intake of alcoholic beverages on a regular basis, which could lead to dependence. Alcoholism, on the hand, is characterized by a reliance on alcohol and frequent, excessive drinking. Alcohol abuse and alcoholism often have very serious consequences. People who start drinking at an early age have a greater risk for developing these conditions. Alcohol abuse is progressive, chronic, and potentially fatal. The person refuses to stop drinking even when it causes them to neglect important work or family obligations. When alcohol abuse is left untreated, it can develop into alcohol dependence, or alcoholism. Alcohol abuse typically starts somewhere in the late teens to the early twenties, although a large number of individuals report that they started drinking at even younger ages. The younger the person is when they start drinking, the more likely it is that they will abuse alcohol or will become dependent on it. According to the latest statistics, more than 7.4% of the American population are alcoholics or abuse alcohol. Most of these people will never receive adequate medical care for their condition. There is a non 12 step program that alcoholics can attend that will help with their alcohol abuse. If you know someone who has problems with drinking too much alcohol then you should help them get treatment from a center.
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