Women and Alcohol Abuse: An Epidemiological Review

Abstract

Alcohol consumption among women is becoming a major problem in India and worldwide. The drinking pattern in India has changed from occasional and ritualistic use to socialuse. Even the pattern of drinking among women has changed. They consume alcohol to get drunk. Report shows that alcohol use and misuse among women are increasing and it is also reported that women who drink have a higher risk of certain alcohol-related problems compared to men. Studies show that women tend to have alcohol-related problems sooner and at lower drinking levels making them more susceptible to alcohol-related health issues compared to men. Research suggests that alcohol misuse causes brain damage which is morequick in women compared to men. Thisarticle review focuses on the burden of alcohol consumption among women in context with its various harmful effects on the body and mind.