Cost of Drinking Tool
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Drinking costs you per week. It costs per year.
When it’s good for your health
A daily drink may lower the risk for heart attack and stroke in some people. But the American Heart Association cautions that you not start drinking if you don't already drink alcohol. This is because it's not possible to predict which people will have problems with alcoholism. Keep your alcohol use at a moderate level. This means no more than 2 drinks per day for men and no more than 1 drink a day for women.
When it’s bad for your health
About 18 million Americans have an alcohol problem. Many of these people are alcoholics. Drinking too much can greatly harm your health.
Heavy drinking may raise the risk for some cancers. Heavy drinking may also cause high blood pressure, heart disease, cirrhosis, pancreatitis, immune system problems, brain damage, and hepatitis. It can harm the baby during pregnancy. Some of these problems develop over time. Women can get these problems sooner.
Heavy drinking can lead to problems with the nervous system. It can also cause mental health problems.
Safety
Drinking raises the risk for car crashes. It causes accidents in the home. Drinking can also lead to public disorder, family abuse, or social problems. People who have been drinking are more likely to commit violent crimes and suicide.
Problems at work
Drinking can lead to problems on the job like missing work and poor quality of work. Drinking problems cost society about $225 billion per year.
This information should not replace a doctor’s care. Always talk with your doctor for advice concerning your health.