ABSTRACT
Alcohol is unique among psychoactive substances in having the capacity to cause widespread tissue damage. There is a vast array of physical complications which occur, sometimes singly, often multiply, in heavy drinkers. Physical sequelae may also be due to concomitant nutritional deficiency, to trauma sustained while intoxicated, or to infections as a result of reduced immune function. Alcohol is a risk factor for HIV infection and other sexually acquired disorders, because of its disinhibiting effects on behaviour.
