Health Effects of Underage Drinking

In addition to all the risks associated with alcohol misuse by adults, underage drinking poses minors to unique risks. Unfortunately, the vast majority of underage drinking in the United States is also binge drinking; according to the CDC, 90% of the alcohol consumed by minors is done during binges (5 or more drinks for males, 4 or more for females). This is particularly troubling, as minors are more susceptible to the following:
  • Alcohol is risky because brain is still developing
  • Use increases risk of accidents, poor decision-making
  • Long-term lingering effects of use on brain include heightened risk of alcoholism and cognitive deficits
As a result, public health professionals have focused on prevention efforts to 1) delay the age at which young people use. and 2) promote and model moderate use.
Alcohol and the Adolescent Brain - a Presentation by Dr. Aaron White
Alcohol use can have significant, long-term effects on the brain development of young people. A copy of a presentation given by Dr. Aaron White of the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism can be viewed below or downloaded at right.
alcohol_and_the_adolescent_brain.pdf
File Size: 5516 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File