ABSTRACT

Persons who are dependent on alcohol and other drugs are at high risk of experiencing adverse consequences of their drug use, including health problems, violence, and accidents. However, the relationship between dependence and harm to health is not perfect. Not all drug-dependent persons develop serious adverse health consequences. For example, healthy young adults may drink heavily enough to meet criteria for alcohol dependence but cease their hazardous use of alcohol before serious health complications develop. Nor are all adverse health effects of alcohol and other drugs con®ned to people who are alcohol or drug dependent. Accidental injuries, drownings, falls, and violence may occur among intoxicated young adults who are not alcohol dependent. Nonetheless, an overview of the major health consequences of alcohol and other drug dependence can be obtained by reviewing the major adverse health consequences that have been linked to the use of these drugs.