April is National Alcohol Awareness Month

April marks Alcohol Awareness Month across the United States. This month will help to educate the public about responsible choices when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Most adults believe that drinking alcohol is a part of many of our celebrations and times of relaxation. However, drinking responsibly is ultra important for the safety of everyone.

National Alcohol Awareness Month in America provides an opportunity to increase your awareness of alcohol addiction. It also helps to bring an understanding of alcohol’s causes, the effective treatments available, and encourages people that recovery is very possible. Alcohol Awareness Month was established in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence to help communities reach out to the public and provide answers to end the stigma associated with alcohol abuse.

Alcohol is not a healthy choice; however, studies have shown that when used in moderation little to no negative health impacts occur. When alcohol is misused, it can lead to serious health and public safety concerns. Each year more than 177,000 people in the US die of alcohol-related causes. More specifically, alcohol-related deaths account for more than 25% of traffic-related fatalities.

Alcohol awareness starts with these important reminders:
•Know that alcohol products are increasingly more potent.
•Know that a standard “drink” is 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol content); 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol content); or 1.5 ounces of liquor (40% alcohol content).
•Know that consumption guidelines for healthy adults state one drink a day for women of all ages and men over age 65; up to two drinks a day for men under age 65.
•Know not to binge drink. This is defined as four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men.
•Know that heavy drinking can lead to chronic diseases, including high blood pressure, cancer, pancreatitis, and the risk of becoming dependent.

Know your limit when drinking and respond accordingly. Recognize and respect the signs of dependence. Most importantly, talk to your children about the concerns associated with drinking, the health issues frequently attached to alcohol use and the dangers of drinking and driving. Parents are reminded to set a good example for their children.

Businesses that serve alcoholic beverages must also do their part to prevent sales of alcohol to minors and intoxicated customers. Proper ID checking and knowing the signs of intoxication are critical for anyone that sells or serves alcohol to customers.

The staff at Bucktail Medical Center is here to further educate, provide help in managing alcohol associated illnesses or where to locate treatment for alcoholism. Contact the Community Clinic at Bucktail Medical Center (570-923-1019) if any further information or assistance is needed.