April Is National Alcohol Awareness Month

By SHELDON GAINES, MD

As this is National Alcohol Awareness Month, it’s an opportune time to address what many consider to be one of America’s major health concerns: alcohol abuse and dependence.

Alcohol abuse is generally lower among African Americans as compared to our European American counterparts however, according to a study by the American Psychological Association, African Americans suffer more negative alcohol-related consequences, including more injuries, illnesses, and negative social consequences than other racial and cultural demographics.

It’s possible African Americans may experience heightened effects of alcohol. This means that when drinking the same amount as someone of a different ethnicity, African Americans may become

FROM THE DOC “Alcohol abuse can result in adverse health consequences.” intoxicated faster and experience negative side effects more quickly.

Dr. Gaines is a board-certified Family Medicine physician.

Alcohol abuse can result in adverse health consequences including liver disease, various cancers, and cardiovascular issues, so please be aware of the warning signs.

Alcohol-related warning signs:

• Experiencing nervousness (“jitters”) until the next drink.

• Declining job performance.

• Lying to friends and family about consumption.

• Impaired driving.

• Unsafe sexual encounters.

• Having more than 4 drinks per day for men.

• Having more than 3 drinks per day for women.

Many people with an alcohol use disorder hesitate to get treatment because they don’t recognize that they have a problem. An intervention from a loved one can help some people recognize and accept that they need professional help.

If concerned about your drinking habits or those of someone you care about, please see, or have your loved one see, an Adult Medicine practitioner for a physical checkup and start a dialogue about making healthier lifestyle choices.

For immediate information, visit www.cdc.gov/alcohol.

Dr. Gaines cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Gulfgate Clinic in Gulfgate Center Mall

, and many more.

We have 35 convenient locations close to home and work –and still growing!