Alcohol Use in US History Pilgrims (1620) stopped travels because than ran out of Beere The tavern was a social focus on colonial America. 1830, average rate of consumption was 5 drinks a day. 2.5 times the level of consumption to day. Reports of public drunkenness were infrequent.

Patterns of Alcohol Consumption 30% percent of Americans who drink account for 80% of alcohol consumed. 10% (of the above) account for approximately 50% of al the alcohol consumed. A small proportion of the US population accounts for most of the alcohol consumed. Steady decline in alcohol use since 1970 to Due to awareness of health, weight, and fitness

Demographics of Alcohol Consumption Women are more likely to prefer wine to beer. Preference for wine increases with age. Increased years of education are associated with preference of wine. College students consume a large amount of alcohol.

Temperance Movement Women’s Christian Temperance Movement was established in Original goals were for moderation of use. 1917: 18th amendment prohibited the the use, transportation, or manufacturing of alcohol Initial decrease in alcohol related deaths. Rise in organized crime. 1933: 21st amendment repealed prohibition

What Makes an Alcoholic Beverage

Acute Physiological Effects Initial increase in diuretic effect-Later increase in antidiuretic effect. Impairs REM sleep patterns Hangovers Result of Congeners Irritation of stomach Antidiuresis may lead to headaches

Sex and Alcohol Men: - Expectations ( placebo studies - greater penile response) -Decrease sexual desire and performance Women: -Subjective response indicates increased sexual desire -Physiological sexual responses decrease

Alcohol and College Performance At 2 and 4 year institutions, the heaviest drinkers have the lowest grades One out of three students at 4 year institutions report missing class dues to alcohol or other drug use A 1991, study showed that: A students averaged 3.6 drinks per week B students averaged 5.5 drinks per week C students averaged 7.6 drinks per week D/F students averaged 10.6 drinks per week

Alcohol and Sexual Assault 1996 Details survey of 2000 college students revealed: 76% had sex with someone who was under the influence alcohol or other drugs 5% had sex with someone who incoherently drunk or unconscious