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Alcohol

Alcohol is a mood-altering drug which has been used for centuries for ceremonial, cultural and other reasons. Alcohol related health problems occur in every society where alcohol is consumed. The prevalence of some of these problems (e.g. cirrhosis of the liver) varies with per capita consumption of alcohol. Early intervention can promote safe drinking patterns and prevent more severe alcohol related problems. Treatment of advanced alcohol dependence is more intensive and less successful, although new medications may improve outcomes.

ALCOHOL - SOME BENEFITS OF OUR FAVOURITE DRUG
Alcohol, like most mood affecting drugs, has benefits as well as dangers. Most of those who drink alcohol do not experience significant harms. As a social lubricant, alcohol is second to none. Alcohol is believed to be an appetite stimulant and to enhance the flavour of food.

ALCOHOL USE AND ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS
In Australia, alcohol consumption has fallen from a peak 11.1 litres of pure alcohol per head of population in 1978 to 9.8 litres in 2004-5. It has been estimated that the cost of alcohol abuse in 1998-99 totalled $7.6 billion.

HOW DO ALCOHOL RELATED HEALTH CARE PROBLEMS PRESENT IN GENERAL PRACTICE?
A patient's use of alcohol may be relevant to a consultation in several ways:

• It may be a significant risk factor for future problems for patients who are drinking hazardously.
• It may be a significant co-factor in the aetiology of clinical presentation.
• Some patients will be alcohol dependent (addicted or 'alcoholic') where addressing the alcohol consumption pattern itself is the central issue.
• It may create problems in the management of other conditions due to interactions with prescribed drugs.